Reputation

• "give not this rotten orange to your friend she's but the sigh and semblance of her honour"

  • reflects the theme of perception versus regarding honour
  • he believes Hero to be unfaithful based on false evidence presented to him, which leads him to question the validity of her honour
  • Claudio's assertion that Hero is merely the "sigh semblance of honour" suggests that he believes her outward appearance of virtue is deceiving
• "give not this rotten orange to your friend she's but the sigh and semblance of her honour"

  • Claudio's willingness to publicly shame Hero based on suspicion of her infidelity reflects the patriarchal values of the society depicted in the play
  • In Elizabethan era a woman's honour is closely tied to her chastity and fidelity and any perceived transgression can result in social ostracism and disgrace
  • Claudio's harsh judgement of Hero reinforces the strict gender norms and expectations surrounding honour and virtue
• "give not this rotten orange to your friend she's but the sigh and semblance of her honour"

  • Claudio's accusation against Hero not only impacts her personally but also tarnishes her reputation in the eyes of others
  • by likening her to a "rotten orange" Claudio implies that her honour has been corrupted or spoiled
  • highlighting the fragility of reputation and the ease which it can be damaged by false accusations or gossip
• reputation in Elizabethan era was deemed highly important and viewed as a immortal part of you which never dies
• "I find here that Don Pedro hath bestowed much honour onto a young Florentine called Claudio"

  • Leonato acknowledges that Don Pedro has bestowed honour upon Claudio , a "young Florentine"
  • the recognition suggests that Claudio's actions or qualities have earned him esteem or respect , thus highlighting the importance of honour in the social hierarchy
  • by mentioning Claudio's origin , shows how directly ones reputation and honour reflects other factors such as family
• "I find here that Don Pedro hath bestowed much honour onto a young Florentine called Claudio"

  • Don Pedro's decision to bestow honour on Claudio serves as a form of validation and recognition on Claudius's character , achievements and qualities
  • Don Pedro's approval holds considerable importance in the eyes of others , including Leonato and other characters in the play
  • Claudio's association with Don Pero elevates his social hierarchy
• • "she died my lord but whilst her slander still lived on " LEONATO ACT 5
  • family honour was also deeply intertwined with individual reputation .a tarnished reputation would not also reflect poorly on the individual but also bring shame and dishonour to the family name .
  • Leonato's reaction exemplifies the importance of family honour as he is deeply affected
• "she died my lord but whilst her slander still lived on " LEONATO ACT 5

  • emphasises the temporary nature of slander compared to the long lasting affects it can have on ones reputation ; whilst Hero may not have physically died , the idea of slander would have continued to live on , perpetuating the damage to her enduring effects on false accusations on ones honour