Brian's Reviews > As You Like It

The new RSC Modern Library Editions of the plays are a quality trade paperback edition of the works of Shakespeare.
“As You Like It” in this series contains a short, but insightful Introduction by Jonathan Bate. In it he makes a lovely point that although it reeks of modern influences (taking the play out of context) I had never thought to consider.
This is a Shakespeare play that I did not much care for when I first read it years ago, but I have since become quite fond of. It is one of Shakespeare's mature comedies, written at the height of his prowess around 1599. It also boats the largest female Shakespearean role, Rosalind, and has a supporting cast that is well defined, and compliments the plays themes quite nicely.
"As You like It" contains one of Shakespeare's most famous monologues, the "Seven Ages of Man" speech spoken by the melancholy member of court Jacques. However, it also boats many other moments of pleasure. Act 2:7 is one of the most profound and beautiful scenes in all of Shakespeare, and that is saying something! The highlight of the play is the third act, which is a delight of imagery and witty dialogues throughout. Act 3:2 seems to touch on a bit of everything and is in a word, delightful! The play hits it thematic and comedic stride in this act, and propels the action to its dizzying assortment of marriages in the conclusion.
This text also boats more songs than any other Shakespeare play, and like all of Shakespeare's work it has dark undertones to many of its more rustic elements. Both serve to enhance the text and make it a more enjoyable experience.
Shakespeare's knack for accurate human characterization never ceases to amaze me, and this text boats many wonderful characters that would make an acting company salivate.
I come back to this wonderful work again and again.
This edition includes an essay on the performance history of the piece, and interviews with two prominent directors (Dominic Cooke & Michael Boyd). It will be of special interest to those who enjoy exploring the multitude of interpretations “As You Like It” lends itself to. The Modern Library edition also includes a scene by scene analysis, which can help point out an image or symbol you might have missed. The edition also includes a nice “Further Readings” list specifically for this play.
Frankly, all of the extra essays allow you to dive into the world of the play, and it is all included in one text.
The RSC Modern Library editions are a nice new trade paperback with worthwhile extras. They are a good addition to the editions of Shakespeare out there. These and the Pelican Shakespeare are my two favorites.