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Don John justifies himself to both Claudio and Don Pedro by stating that by letting them
know ahead of time that she’s no good he is, indeed, doing them a favor because he cares about
them.

“You may think I love you not let that
appear hereafter, and aim better at me by that I now
will manifest. For my brother, I think he holds you
well, and in dearness of heart hath holp to effect your
ensuing marriage;--surely suit ill spent and labour ill
bestowed.” (3.3.89-94)
Through this action Don John is hoping to come off as selfless and caring. Don John is putting
forth a visage of a caring man looking out for a dear and beloved friend with the ultimate goal of,
perhaps, gaining some sort of empathy from Claudio and Don Pedro. The findings of Palomäki
et al. are valid in regards to Don John and his trickery. Don John’s ultimate goal is to bolster his
status among his peers, as well as his influence over others.
By continuing with his act of benevolence at the wedding, Don John effectively manages
to trick Claudio and Don Pedro into thinking that he is on their side and telling the truth.
Thinking that he was above the law and that no one would find out about his sinister plan, Don
John called Hero out during the ceremony and sided with Claudio. “There is not chastity enough
in language/ Without offence to utter them. Thus, pretty lady,/ I am sorry for thy much
misgovernment” (4.1.97-99) Claudio sticks to his story, hoping that his trick will work out the
way he wanted. He claims that Hero’s actions are unspeakable and that she is of loose morals
when, in fact, it is Don John who is committing immoral acts with the hopes of bettering his
image.