As You Like It

Definition

'As You Like It' is a pastoral comedy by William Shakespeare that explores themes of love, identity, and the contrast between court life and rural life. The play is notable for its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and the exploration of gender roles, particularly through the character of Rosalind, who disguises herself as a man. This work is significant in understanding the evolution of Shakespearean plays, particularly in how it blends elements of romance and comedy within a rich narrative framework.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'As You Like It' is set in the Forest of Arden, symbolizing freedom and the natural world, contrasting with the restrictive court life.
2. The play features one of Shakespeare's most famous speeches about the seven stages of man, illustrating life's journey and transformation.
3. The character of Touchstone serves as a clown or fool, providing humor and social commentary through his clever wordplay and observations.
4. Shakespeare uses song and poetry throughout 'As You Like It,' enhancing the play's romantic themes and emotional depth.
5. The play culminates in multiple marriages, reinforcing the theme that love is multifaceted and ultimately triumphant.

Review Questions

• How does the character of Rosalind challenge traditional gender roles in 'As You Like It'?
  • Rosalind challenges traditional gender roles by disguising herself as Ganymede, allowing her to interact with other characters in ways that would be restricted for women at the time. Her intelligence and assertiveness enable her to manipulate situations to her advantage, ultimately guiding other characters toward self-discovery and love. Through her disguise, she explores themes of identity and autonomy while also questioning societal norms regarding femininity and masculinity.
• Analyze how 'As You Like It' uses the setting of the Forest of Arden to contrast with court life.
  • 'As You Like It' contrasts the rigid social structures of court life with the liberating atmosphere of the Forest of Arden. The forest serves as a space for characters to escape societal constraints and explore their identities. In Arden, relationships are more fluid, allowing for personal growth and genuine connections that are often stifled in the court. This juxtaposition emphasizes the play's themes of love, freedom, and self-discovery.
• Evaluate the significance of music and poetry in 'As You Like It' and how it contributes to the overall themes of the play.
  • Music and poetry play a crucial role in 'As You Like It,' enriching its emotional landscape and underscoring its central themes. Songs in the play often reflect characters' innermost feelings about love, longing, and nature. This use of lyrical expression enhances the pastoral quality of the setting while allowing characters to articulate their experiences and desires. Through music, Shakespeare captures the essence of romantic relationships, highlighting both their joys and complexities within the context of human experience.

Related terms

Pastoral Comedy: 'Pastoral comedy' refers to a genre that idealizes rural life and focuses on romantic escapades in a natural setting, often contrasting with the complexities of court life.

Rosalind: 'Rosalind' is the central character in 'As You Like It,' known for her intelligence, wit, and ability to navigate the complexities of love while disguised as Ganymede.

Themes of Disguise: 'Themes of disguise' in 'As You Like It' highlight the fluidity of identity and gender roles, as characters adopt alternate personas to explore love and societal expectations.