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Plot summary - false accusations and wedding

Don Pedro and Claudio discover they were wrong

Beatrice and Benedick bicker good-naturedly
Figure caption,
Beatrice and Benedick bicker good-naturedly

In response to Claudio's false accusations against Hero, Beatrice asks Benedick to 'Kill Claudio!' and Leonato later challenges Claudio to a duel. When the Watch (led by Dogberry) appear with Conrade and Borachio, Don Pedro and Claudio find out that they were mistaken. Claudio is apologetic and agrees to make amends by proclaiming Hero's innocence and singing songs at her tomb. He also consents to marrying Hero's uncle's unseen 'daughter'.

Claudio and Hero marry

At the wedding, Antonio's 'daughter' is revealed and Claudio is delighted to discover that his new wife is in fact Hero.

Benedick and Beatrice agree to marry

Benedick asks for Beatrice's hand in marriage and after some more witty banter, she agrees. News arrives via a messenger that Don John has been captured. The play ends with music and dancing.