Understanding Shakespeare: As You Like It by Robert A. Albano - HTML preview

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  1. In Rosalind these warring oppositions are reconciled and at peace within her.
  1. like Jacques, she is aware of death and mortality
  2. like Corin, she is aware that passionate love diminishes with time
  3. like Touchstone, she is aware that lovers act in ridiculous ways
  1. Yet Rosalind remains happy yet also remains seriously loyal to Orlando.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. In the Pastoral tale sophisticated urbanites in rustic life discover truths about themselves and about life.
  5. 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].