Officers, what offence have these men done?DOGBERRY Marry, sir, they have committed false report; moreover, they have spoken untruths; secondarily, they are slanders; sixth and lastly, they havebelied a lady; thirdly, they have verified unjust things; and, to conclude, they are lying knaves.
In this excerpt from Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing," the character Dogberry informs the officers about the crimes committed by certain men. He emphasizes that their offenses include making false reports and speaking untruths. He also labels them as slanderers who have defamed a lady, listing their various wrongdoings in a somewhat humorous and convoluted manner.
Dogberry's speech is notable for its confusion and comedic effect, as he struggles to articulate the charges clearly. The array of accusations, such as belied truths and deceitful behavior, underscores themes of reputation and honor present in the play. This passage highlights the absurdity and complexity of human relationships, particularly in the context of misunderstandings and miscommunications among characters.
