The fact that every character in the play, no matter how important, is involved in some form of gull, deception or misinterpretation clearly shows Shakespeare's exploration into the depth of appearance and reality. Much Ado About Nothing explores this gap of appearance and reality through the flaws of the patriarchal society in Messina, subject of perception, obscure truth as well as the humorous and destructive nature of such misconceptions.

What is disturbing about Messina's patriarchal society is that the appearance and obscure truth from the spoken word has a far greater value than what is in fact reality. The men who are at the top of this social hierarchy are those who base their lives around the virtues of honour, valor and nobility, or at least are supposed to be. Right from the start of the play Claudio is described to have the `figure of a lamb and...