Themes: Tempered Humanism and Compassion
While several of the play's other characters recognize that love fades, that people are often ridiculous and cruel, and that human life becomes worm fodder, they are generally willing to embrace the joys of being alive. Rosalind serves as the prime example of this tempered humanism. For example, in her disguise as Ganymede, Rosalind tells Orlando that "love is merely madness" (III.ii), but in the next act she confides to her cousin Celia that she is now hopelessly deep in her love for Oliver. Alongside her tolerance for human frailty (including her own passions), Rosalind epitomizes the virtues of a caring heroine. Chief among these traits are compassion and a concern for others. In the first scene of the play, Rosalind is understandably disturbed by the banishment of her father and the treachery of her uncle, but she nevertheless says to her cousin Celia, "I will forget the condition of my estate, to rejoice in yours" (I.i.15). What Rosalind stands for are values of love and harmony and the willingness to construct a positive experience even in the face of adversity. This spirit is also found in the behavior of Orlando when he comes across the brother who wronged him, asleep at the mercy of a fierce beast. As the reformed Oliver puts it in Act IV, scene iii, his younger brother considered allowing him to be mauled, "But kindness, nobler ever than revenge, / And nature, stronger than his just occasion." At risk of his own life, Orlando repays Oliver's mistreatment with an act of sacrifice. This, in turn, causes a conversion in Oliver, while a meeting with an old religious man causes Duke Frederick to undergo a parallel awakening.
Expert Q&A
How does forgiveness transform hatred to love between Orlando and Oliver in As You Like It?
Forgiveness transforms hatred to love between Orlando and Oliver through a life-threatening encounter with a lioness. Orlando's courageous act of saving Oliver leads to a reconciliation filled with tears and mutual forgiveness. This transformation is blessed by Duke Senior, illustrating that life-and-death situations can prompt individuals to prioritize humanity over personal animosity. The play suggests that moral conscience and self-sacrifice are crucial in overcoming deep-seated hatred, offering a timeless lesson on the power of forgiveness.
What is the theme of reconciliation and forgiveness in As You Like It, Act 5, Scene 4?
In Act 5, Scene 4 of As You Like It, reconciliation and forgiveness are central themes as characters shed disguises and embrace truth. Reconciliations occur between Rosalind and Orlando, Rosalind and Duke Senior, Celia and Duke Senior, and Phebe and Silvius. Forgiveness is highlighted in Duke Frederick's transformation and his reconciliation with Duke Senior and the exiled noblemen, as he renounces his past and chooses a religious life.
The implications and justifications of the statement "Sweet are the uses of adversity" in As You Like It
The statement "Sweet are the uses of adversity" in As You Like It implies that hardships can have beneficial outcomes. Through adversity, characters grow, learn, and often discover their strengths and virtues. The play justifies this by showing how challenges lead to personal development and deeper understanding, ultimately bringing about positive changes in the characters' lives.
Rosalind's feelings and behavior in response to Duke Frederick's unkind treatment in As You Like It
Rosalind responds to Duke Frederick's unkind treatment with resilience and resourcefulness. Despite being banished, she disguises herself as a man named Ganymede to ensure her safety and to seek out her father in the Forest of Arden. Her behavior showcases her intelligence and adaptability in overcoming adversity.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
