Understanding Shakespeare: As You Like It by Robert A. Albano - HTML preview
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- In Rosalind these warring oppositions are reconciled and at peace within her.
- like Jacques, she is aware of death and mortality
- like Corin, she is aware that passionate love diminishes with time
- like Touchstone, she is aware that lovers act in ridiculous ways
- Yet Rosalind remains happy yet also remains seriously loyal to Orlando.
- As You Like It (c. 1599) was not published until the First Folio (1623) because it was popular. The Theater wanted to retain a monopoly on it so that other theaters and acting troops could not perform it.
- Two Worlds Theme: Ardenne is not like an ordinary world, but it is not a paradise either: wind, cold, and rain do occur. But Arden is a “good” place. “Fortune” does not oppress and stifle “nature.” People are free, non- materialistic. Fame [as well as power] is unimportant.
- In the Pastoral tale sophisticated urbanites in rustic life discover truths about themselves and about life.
- Rosalind keeps up the disguise of Ganymede even when it is no longer necessary because it allows her freedom. She learns about Orlando, love, and herself [but disguise is necessary if Duke Frederick comes looking for Celia].