Setting: The house of Leonato, governor of Messina. The members of Leonato’s household are celebrating the war’s victorious conclusion and awaiting the return of General Don Pedro and his forces. Hero rejoices that her fiancé Claudio is unharmed, while Beatrice looks forward to mocking Benedict, an officer whom she apparently dislikes. No sooner does the army return than Beatrice and Benedict resume annoying each other with their vigorous “war of words.” Benedict reaffirms his commitment to stay a bachelor, to the disappointment of Don Pedro and Claudio.

They leave as Somarone and his musicians arrive to rehearse for the evening’s festivities. Aware that Benedict is within earshot, Don Pedro, Claudio and Leonato report that Beatrice is passionately in love with Benedict, but unwilling to tell him, for fear of being mocked. When the others leave, Benedict admits that he loves Beatrice as well. He leaves as Hero and Ursula approach and the two women reflect upon Hero’s approaching marriage.

As part of Don Pedro’s plan, Hero and Ursula stage a conversation for Beatrice’s benefit. Beatrice overhears them discussing Benedict, who is supposedly dying of love for her. She recalls the sadness she felt when he left with the army, as well as the fear she experienced while dreaming of him dying in battle. Beatrice admits that she loves Benedict. Hero and Ursula find Beatrice distraught and, continuing the charade, further assure Beatrice of the change that has come over Benedict.

Hero and Ursula depart, leaving Beatrice in Benedict’s company. She blurts out her feelings for him, and Benedict assures Beatrice of his love for her. They are interrupted by the arrival of the wedding party. After Claudio and Hero sign their marriage contract, Leonato announces there is a second marriage contract and asks who the couple is going to be. Benedict confronts Beatrice and each continues to deny loving the other, until written evidence to the contrary is produced. They finally agree to get married and to call a truce to their verbal battle…at least until tomorrow.