Aestheticization of pastoral elements in Shakespeare's play As You Like It

Abstract

This thesis entitled “Aestheticization of Pastoral Elements in Shakespeare’s play As You Like It” portrays the glorification of nature, rustic scenes and rural life. Full of poetry, sweet songs, comic invention, satire, exiles from urban to country life, the exiled characters converse with Shepherds and wedding masque, it’s unlikely plot is more than redeemed by the joyous confusion of lovelorn swains, strong minded heroine in disguise, a melancholy philosopher and eventual triumph of justice. By providing an artificial realm of the imaginary forest and shepherds, Shakespeare presents the life of exiled duke and his followers more satisfying and romantic.