As You Like It
Overview
As You Like It is a pastoral comedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in 1599 or early 1600. The play is set in a duchy in France, but most of the action takes place in a fictional Forest of Arden. It is a tale of love, disguise, and mistaken identity, exploring themes of gender roles, nature versus nurture, and the complexities of human relationships. The play is one of Shakespeare's most frequently performed comedies and has been adapted for various media, including film and musical theater.
Plot Summary
The play opens with a conflict between two brothers, Oliver and Orlando, sons of the late Sir Rowland de Bois. Oliver, the elder, denies Orlando his inheritance and education, leading to Orlando's dissatisfaction. Meanwhile, Duke Senior has been usurped by his brother, Duke Frederick, and has taken refuge in the Forest of Arden. Duke Senior's daughter, Rosalind, remains at court as a companion to her cousin Celia, Duke Frederick's daughter.
Orlando, after a victorious wrestling match, falls in love with Rosalind. However, Duke Frederick banishes Rosalind from the court. Celia decides to accompany her cousin, and together with the court jester, Touchstone, they flee to the Forest of Arden. Rosalind disguises herself as a young man named Ganymede, and Celia assumes the name Aliena.
In the forest, they encounter various characters, including the melancholic Jaques, who delivers some of the play's most famous speeches, including "All the world's a stage." Orlando, also fleeing from his brother's wrath, arrives in the forest and begins posting love poems to Rosalind on the trees. In her disguise, Rosalind engages Orlando in a playful courtship, testing his love for her.
The play concludes with multiple weddings: Rosalind and Orlando, Celia and Oliver, Touchstone and Audrey, and the shepherdess Phebe, who initially spurns Silvius but eventually marries him. Duke Frederick undergoes a change of heart and restores Duke Senior to his rightful position, allowing for a harmonious resolution.
Themes
Love and Disguise
The theme of love is central to As You Like It, explored through various romantic entanglements. The use of disguise, particularly Rosalind's transformation into Ganymede, allows Shakespeare to examine gender roles and the fluidity of identity. The play suggests that love transcends superficial appearances and societal expectations.
Nature and Pastoral Life
The contrast between court life and the pastoral setting of the Forest of Arden highlights the theme of nature versus nurture. The forest represents a place of freedom and natural harmony, where characters can explore their true selves away from the constraints of courtly society. This pastoral ideal is juxtaposed with the corruption and political intrigue of the court.
Melancholy and Reflection
Jaques, the play's melancholic philosopher, provides a counterpoint to the play's comedic elements. His introspective nature and reflective speeches, including the famous "Seven Ages of Man," offer a deeper commentary on the human condition and the passage of time.
Characters
Rosalind
Rosalind is the play's protagonist, known for her intelligence, wit, and resourcefulness. Her disguise as Ganymede allows her to navigate the complexities of love and identity, ultimately leading to her self-discovery and empowerment.
Orlando
Orlando is the play's romantic hero, characterized by his bravery, loyalty, and passion. His love for Rosalind drives much of the plot, and his journey from the court to the forest mirrors his personal growth.
Duke Senior and Duke Frederick
Duke Senior, the rightful duke, embodies the virtues of kindness and wisdom, while his brother, Duke Frederick, represents the corrupting influence of power. Their contrasting characters underscore the play's exploration of morality and justice.
Jaques
Jaques is a contemplative and philosophical character, providing a critical perspective on the events of the play. His famous soliloquies offer insights into the nature of life and human folly.
Literary Devices
Use of Prose and Verse
Shakespeare employs both prose and verse in As You Like It, using prose for comedic and informal exchanges, and verse for more serious and romantic moments. This stylistic choice enhances the play's exploration of social class and emotional depth.
Symbolism
The Forest of Arden serves as a symbol of natural harmony and freedom, contrasting with the artificiality of court life. Disguise and mistaken identity are also significant symbols, representing the fluidity of identity and the transformative power of love.
Wordplay and Wit
Shakespeare's use of wordplay and wit is evident throughout the play, particularly in the banter between Rosalind and Orlando. This linguistic dexterity adds a layer of complexity to the characters' interactions and underscores the play's comedic elements.
Adaptations
As You Like It has been adapted into various forms, including film, television, and musical theater. Notable adaptations include Kenneth Branagh's 2006 film, which sets the play in 19th-century Japan, and the 1936 film starring Laurence Olivier. The play has also inspired musical adaptations, such as the 1960s rock musical Your Own Thing.
Performance History
Since its first performance in the early 17th century, As You Like It has remained a popular choice for theatrical productions. The play's themes of love, identity, and nature continue to resonate with audiences, making it a staple of Shakespearean repertoire. Notable productions have featured renowned actors such as Vanessa Redgrave, Helen Mirren, and Kevin Kline.
Critical Reception
As You Like It has been praised for its exploration of complex themes and its rich character development. Critics have lauded Shakespeare's use of language and his ability to blend comedy with philosophical reflection. The play's enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and its ability to speak to the human experience.