Quote 4
DON JOHN
Sir, they are spoken, and these things are true. (4.1.70)
There’s something to be said about Don John’s language—while everyone else is clearly passionate about the proceedings, and full of words, explanations, and fury—Don John speaks only a single line. His phrase is so simple and forceful that you might almost think it was true—if you didn’t know he was a determined villain.
Quote 5
DON JOHN
Will it serve for any model to build mischief
on? What is he for a fool that betroths himself to
unquietness?
BORACHIO
Marry, it is your brother's right hand.
DON JOHN
Who, the most exquisite Claudio?
BORACHIO
Even he.
DON JOHN
A proper squire. And who? And who? Which
way looks he?
BORACHIO
Marry, on Hero, the daughter and heir of
Leonato.
DON JOHN
A very forward March chick! How came you
to this? (1.3.44-55)
Don John caricatures Claudio and Hero, belittling their good reputations (perhaps in preparation of spoiling their reputations altogether), and using their best qualities as though they were bad qualities.
Claudio, who is actually a count, is called a lowly squire, and Hero, who is known for her youth, is maligned as being a chick who has hatched prematurely. Don John seems resentful and wants to destroy the young lovers’ reputations, maybe because they are currently in such high standing.