Beatrice is the niece of Leonato, cousin of Hero. She is one of Shakespeare's most iconic female characters. With her spirited individuality and sharp wit, Beatrice can sometimes be misconstrued as shrewish. She is defensive about love, especially with the playboy, Benedick, but her character is charming and candid. Excerpt from Much Ado (Act 1: Scene 1), Beatrice to Benedick: “I thank God And my cold blood, I am of your humor for that: I had rather hear my dog bark at a crow than a man swear

Hero is the daughter of Leonato, cousin to Beatrice. She is considered to be a conventional depiction of a suitable and desirable wife. Hero is described throughout the play to be beautiful, obedient, quiet, and forgiving and it is because of these traits that she is often characterized as having no backbone. Excerpt from Much Ado (Act 5; Scene 4), Hero to Claudio: Hero: “And when I lived, I was your other wife: And when you loved, you were my other husband.”

"A cousin is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost. Cousins are your first friends."

Beatrice and Hero are headed to the "Mask"erade ball! There will be drinks, dancing, and joy!!

A beautiful, elegant Hero swoons at the sight of her betrothed, Claudio.

Beatrice has no interest in the boys at the party, hand over the giggle juice and make way for a REAL woman!

"Rumor has it Benedick DOES love you, Cousin. He always has and always will!"

"Benedick...WHAT?!"