For all latest articles, follow on Google NewsAs You Like It is a pastoral comedy written by William Shakespeare, first published in 1599. The play is a charming tale of love and self-discovery set in the Forest of Arden and the court of Duke Frederick. It follows the story of Rosalind, a young woman who is forced to flee her home and disguise herself as a man in order to escape persecution.
Table of contents
The Court of Duke Frederick
As You Like It, the play, opens in the court of Duke Frederick, where Rosalind, the daughter of the exiled Duke Senior, and her cousin Celia are living. However, when Duke Frederick banishes Rosalind, Celia decides to go with her and the two women escape to the Forest of Arden.
The Forest of Arden
In the forest, the women encounter a variety of characters, including Duke Senior, who has been banished from his own court and is now living in the forest with his followers. They also meet Orlando, a young man who is in love with Rosalind but does not know her true identity. The forest is a place of refuge and a place of discovery, where the characters can escape the constraints of court life and discover their true selves.
The Characters in the Forest
The forest is also home to a variety of other characters, including Jaques, a melancholic philosopher, Touchstone, a court jester, and a group of shepherds and goatherds. Each of these characters contributes to the play’s exploration of love, mortality, and the nature of reality.
Rosalind’s Disguise and Misunderstandings
To protect herself, Rosalind disguises herself as a man and adopts the name “Ganymede.” She meets Orlando in the forest and begins to teach him about the nature of love, leading to a series of misunderstandings and comical situations. Through her disguise, Rosalind learns about the power of love and the importance of honesty and communication in relationships.
The Resolution of Conflicts:
As the play As You Like It progresses, the various relationships and conflicts are resolved. Touchstone’s love for Audrey is accepted by the shepherds, and Jaques’ melancholic musings are contrasted with the joy and vitality of the other characters.
The Reunion of Lovers and the Restoration of Order
In the final act of the play, the characters return to the court and order is restored. Rosalind reveals her true identity and is reunited with Orlando, while Duke Senior is restored to his rightful place as Duke. The play ends on a note of happiness and hope, as the characters have learned valuable lessons about love, identity, and the power of nature.
In conclusion, As You Like It is a play that explores themes of love, identity, and the power of nature to heal and transform. With its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and exploration of the human condition, it remains one of Shakespeare’s most beloved works.
