This book contains the following story:
Shakespeare drew upon tales of Robin Hood for his play 'As you Like It.' Heroine Rosalind flees persecution from her uncles court and with her fellow exiles makes peace with the world, living out in the Forest of Dean.
"As You Like It" is a comedic play written by William Shakespeare, exploring themes of love, identity, and the complexities of human relationships.
Act 1: The play opens in the court of Duke Frederick, where Orlando, the younger son of Sir Rowland de Boys, is mistreated by his older brother, Oliver. Orlando decides to challenge his brother in a wrestling match to prove his worth. Meanwhile, Rosalind, the daughter of Duke Senior, has been banished from the court by her uncle Duke Frederick. Celia, Duke Frederick's daughter and Rosalind's cousin, decides to join her in exile.
Act 2: After defeating Charles, the court wrestler, Orlando catches the eye of Rosalind, who is disguised as a young man named Ganymede. Rosalind, along with Celia and Touchstone, the court jester, also goes into exile in the Forest of Arden. In the forest, they encounter shepherds, including Silvius, who pines for the love of the disdainful shepherdess Phoebe. Rosalind, disguised as Ganymede, offers to play the role of a love counselor for Silvius.
Act 3: Orlando, who is also in the forest, posts love poems for Rosalind on the trees, expressing his deep affection for her. Rosalind, disguised as Ganymede, decides to test Orlando's love for her by pretending to be Rosalind and engaging in role-playing and witty banter with him.
Act 4: Meanwhile, a group of exiled nobles, including Duke Senior, have found refuge in the Forest of Arden. Duke Senior's court becomes a haven for merriment and music. Rosalind continues her playful masquerade as Ganymede and manages to help others find love, including resolving the issues between Silvius, Phoebe, and her own feelings for Orlando.
Act 5: In the final act, all the characters converge in the forest, where misunderstandings and mistaken identities are resolved. Orlando and Rosalind's love is confirmed, and the couples are united in marriage. Duke Frederick, experiencing a change of heart, decides to restore his brother Duke Senior to the throne, making peace with his former enemies. The play concludes with a joyful celebration of love and reconciliation, as the characters prepare to return to the court for a life of happiness and harmony.
"As You Like It" is a delightful comedy that celebrates the transformative power of love and the joy of finding one's true identity. The play's exploration of gender roles and the nuances of human emotions, along with its witty wordplay and charming characters, make it one of Shakespeare's most beloved and lighthearted works.
