How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line) Line numbers correspond to the Riverside edition.
Quote #10
BENEDICK
Well, every one can master a grief but he
that has it. (3.2.27-28)
This seems to be Benedick’s first time being in true love. And, like so many lovers before him, he’s convinced it’s a unique feeling than no one else has ever felt.
Quote #11
CLAUDIO
If he be not in love with some woman, there
is no believing old signs. He brushes his hat o'
mornings. What should that bode?
DON PEDRO
Hath any man seen him at the barber's?
CLAUDIO
No, but the barber's man hath been seen
with him, and the old ornament of his cheek hath
already stuffed tennis balls.
LEONATO
Indeed he looks younger than he did, by the
loss of a beard.
DON PEDRO
Nay, he rubs himself with civet. Can you smell
him out by that?
CLAUDIO
That's as much as to say, the sweet youth's in
love. (3.2.38-50)
This is just adorable. Ergh, we mean, this is serious evidence that even the most resistant among us can fall victim to the steel trap of love.
Also, in Shakespeare’s day, in order to show that a character was in love, there were certain conventional signs and costume devices the actor would wear so the audience would understand he was in love. Benedick shows up here looking prettier than usual—it’s a signal to the audience that he’s been changed by love. It’s basically the equivalent of wearing a T-shirt that says, "I’m in love" on stage.
Quote #12
BEATRICE
It is a man's office, but not yours.
BENEDICK
I do love nothing in the world so well as
you. Is not that strange? (4.1.280-282)
Benedick’s abrupt admission that he loves Beatrice (which is way more straightforward than we would’ve expected) is prompted by Beatrice’s need… of a man to challenge Claudio. Beatrice is looking for a man to do the task, so perhaps Benedick offers his love as proof that he’d do any task for her. Either that, or he’s just awkward and has an inappropriate sense of timing.