After completing the assigned readings for this week my main interest was in Shakespeare's "As You Like It". I found the interactions of the characters within the story interesting. The familial relationships are intriguing. Orlando and Oliver are brothers however the issue of power being passed down causes turmoil. At one point Orlando, the younger brother, attacks Oliver. Later on in the act Oliver makes it known that he wants his brother to die. Their lack of affection for each other is startling to say the least. It is a true look into the issue of power breaking up a family. This relationship is going to be very interesting to see develop throughout the play. In addition, the relationship between Rosalind and Celia is very interesting. They are cousins however they act as if they are sisters. They are even closer than most sisters, they are willing to do anything for each other. At the end of the Act 1 Celia is even willing to dress as a man and give up her privileged life because Rosalind is being banished. This is a stark juxtaposition to the relationship of Oliver and Orlando, who are really brothers but do not show any love or compassion for each other. I hope the depth of these relationships is revealed throughout the course of the play.
Kylie Gignac
2 comments:
I agree that the presentation of these relationships is interesting and challenging to say the least. Do you think is it a coincidence that the women are getting along better and closer than the men are? I am curious to see if gender has anything to do with the outcome of each relationship. I believe the issue of gender will be addressed later in the play so it will be easier to work through each relationship.
I'm really glad you have been enjoying this play so far too! I find the language challenging, but this may be one of my favorite Shakespeare plays to date!. I wonder if you have any ideas why Shakespeare choose to portray the cousin-sisters as such a close relationship and the brothers that hate as a very distant relationship where the older brother practically feels he is a "master"? I hope as well that the relationships keep moving and I can't wait to see how they evolve. Do you have any predictions?
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