As You Like It

Drama | William Shakespeare
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Significance of Disguise in As You Like It. 

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Write on the significance of disguise in “As You Like It”. 

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was a master of craftsmanship. He first invented the dramatic technique of disguise in his world-famous tragicomedy “The Merchant of Venice” (1600) and later in “As You Like It” (1623). The disguise term helps advance the plot and the use of irony, theme, and tragicomic effects.

Matter of Safety and Liberty: Duke Frederick suddenly banishes Rosalind. He is jealous of her virtues. He declares that Rosalind has to go out twenty miles away from the palace within ten days. Celia also joins Rosalind. Her cousin Celia reveals her love for her sister, saying,

“I cannot live out of her company.”

Finally, they decide to take a disguise and go to the Forest of Arden. Rosalind takes a male named Ganymede, and Celia takes a female named Aliena. In the forest, her male appearance allows her to move f
reely without fear.

True Love Under Test: In the Forest of Arden, Rosalind meets Orlando. She secretly loves him. Orlando does not recognize her in her Ganymede disguise. She pretends to be a "love doctor". She teaches him how to express his love. Through this, she tests the sincerity of his feelings for her.

Subplot or Tangle Love: The dramatic significance of disguise has created a subplot in the play. Rosalind, as Ganymede, is extremely handsome. Phoebe loves him. She is ready to do anything for Ganymede. So, she rejects Silvius's sincere love. Rosalind warns Phoebe,

“I pray you, do not fall in love with me.”

The Truth Revealed and Happy Ending: At the end of the play, Rosalind reveals her true identity. She takes off her disguise and admits she is Duke Senior’s daughter. Orlando is overjoyed to discover the truth. Phoebe realizes Ganymede is a woman. So, she agrees to marry Silvius. The disguise not only brings laughter but also helps fix all conflicts and misunderstandings.

Rosalind’s disguise as Ganymede is a clever tool. It drives the story forward. It creates humor, tests love and teaches lessons. Through this disguise, Shakespeare shows how identity can change, but true love and wisdom remain strong.

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