Banns

English church weddings were normally preceded by the banns: announcements on three consecutive Sundays that allowed objections, such as an existing marriage promise, to be raised. Marriage was a public and religious commitment. This helps explain the force of Claudio’s choice to disgrace Hero before the congregation: he uses the occasion intended to confirm her place in society to destroy her reputation.

English church weddings were normally preceded by the banns, announced on three consecutive Sundays so that objections could be raised. The bride’s marriage vow also included obedience to her husband. These customs help explain why marriage was a public institution and why Beatrice might resist entering a relationship that could place her under male authority.