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As You Like It: A Masterpiece of Shakespeare's Romantic Comedy

Chad Price

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Published in As You Like It (William Shakespeare Masterpieces 13)

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William Shakespeare's As You Like It is a timeless masterpiece of romantic comedy, captivating audiences for centuries with its enchanting characters, witty dialogue, and enduring themes of love, identity, and the power of transformation.

Themes of "As You Like It"

Love and Romance:

As You Like It (William Shakespeare Masterpieces 13)

As You Like It (William Shakespeare Masterpieces Book 13)

by Aylette Jenness

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	120 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	80 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

As You Like It is a celebration of love in all its forms. The play features several intertwined love stories, each exploring different aspects of the human heart. From the playful courtship of Rosalind and Orlando to the mature love of Duke Senior and his banished brother, the play showcases the transformative power of love.

Identity and Transformation:

The characters in As You Like It undergo significant transformations throughout the play. Rosalind disguises herself as a boy named Ganymede, while Orlando leaves his courtly life for the freedom of the forest. These transformations allow the characters to explore new aspects of themselves and challenge societal expectations.

Nature and the Pastoral Ideal:

The play is set in the Forest of Arden, a pastoral paradise that offers a sanctuary from the complexities of court life. Shakespeare uses the natural setting to explore themes of simplicity, renewal, and the search for a more authentic life.

Characters of "As You Like It"

Rosalind:

Rosalind is the play's central character, a witty and intelligent heroine who disguises herself as a boy named Ganymede. Her quick wit and sharp tongue make her one of Shakespeare's most memorable creations.

Orlando:

Orlando is a young nobleman who falls in love with Rosalind. Despite his initial awkwardness, Orlando is a passionate and determined lover, willing to overcome any obstacle to win her heart.

Duke Senior:

The banished Duke Senior finds solace in the Forest of Arden, where he rules with wisdom and compassion. His presence represents the possibility of a more just and harmonious society.

Touchstone:

Touchstone is the court jester, a witty and cynical observer of human nature. His sardonic humor provides a contrast to the play's more romantic elements.

Legacy of "As You Like It"

As You Like It has had a profound impact on world literature and theater:

Romantic Comedy Tradition:

The play has been a major influence on the development of romantic comedy, both in literature and on stage. Its witty dialogue, mistaken identities, and happy ending have become staples of the genre.

Shakespearean Adaptations:

As You Like It has been adapted into numerous films, television shows, and stage productions, each offering a fresh interpretation of Shakespeare's classic work.

Cultural Influence:

The play's characters and themes have permeated popular culture, with phrases like "all the world's a stage" and "too swift arrives as tardy as too slow" becoming part of our collective vocabulary.

As You Like It is a captivating and timeless masterpiece that showcases the brilliance of William Shakespeare's comedic genius. Its themes of love, identity, and transformation continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a cornerstone of world literature and a beloved classic of the stage.

As You Like It (William Shakespeare Masterpieces Book 13)

by Aylette Jenness

4.3 out of 5