How does the audience feel towards Don John in Much Ado about Nothing?

Don John is presented in a negative light from the beginning of the play. He is described as a "bastard" and depicted as a villainous and scheming character. His reputation precedes him, and the audience is immediately biased against him. As the play progresses, Don John's actions only serve to confirm the negative impression of him. He manipulates Claudio into believing that Hero is unfaithful, which leads to the disastrous wedding scene. Don John's actions are motivated by jealousy and spite, and he shows no remorse for the pain he causes. As a result, the audience feels nothing but contempt for him by the end of the play.