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As You Like It

Character List for As You Like It:

  • Rosalind: The main character, the daughter of Duke Senior, who disguises herself as Ganymede.
  • Orlando: A young gentleman in love with Rosalind.
  • Celia: Rosalind’s cousin and close friend, who disguises herself as Aliena.
  • Duke Senior: Rosalind’s father, banished and living in the Forest of Arden.
  • Duke Frederick: Rosalind’s uncle who banishes her from the court.
  • Jaques: A melancholy courtier who joins the exiled group in the Forest of Arden.
  • Touchstone: A witty and humorous court fool.
  • Silvius: A shepherd in love with Phoebe.
  • Phoebe: A shepherdess on whom Silvius has a crush.
  • Oliver: Orlando’s elder brother who initially mistreats him.
  • Adam: An elderly servant in the service of the de Boys family.

Summary of As You Like It:

“As You Like It” is a comedic play by William Shakespeare that explores themes of love, nature, and the contrast between courtly and pastoral life. The story begins with the banishment of Duke Senior by his brother Duke Frederick. Duke Senior’s daughter, Rosalind, is allowed to stay at court because of her close friendship with Duke Frederick’s daughter, Celia.

When Orlando, a young gentleman mistreated by his brother Oliver, catches Rosalind’s eye, they fall in love. However, circumstances force Rosalind to disguise herself as a young man named Ganymede and Celia as Aliena, as they flee to the Forest of Arden.

In the forest, they encounter various characters, including the melancholic Jaques, the witty fool Touchstone, and the love-stricken Silvius and Phoebe. Rosalind, disguised as Ganymede, engages in playful banter with Orlando, testing his love for her. Meanwhile, various romantic entanglements unfold, leading to a resolution where all couples are united.

The play culminates in multiple marriages, a reconciliation between Duke Senior and Duke Frederick, and a celebration of love and harmony. The Forest of Arden becomes a symbol of transformation and self-discovery, emphasizing the idea that, in matters of love, all may end “as you like it.”