As You Like It Act-2 Quiz : In Act 2 of As You Like It, Duke Senior embraces the simplicity of life in the Forest of Arden, contrasting it with the corruption of court life. Jaques, the melancholic philosopher, offers cynical insights, including the famous “Seven Ages of Man” speech. Meanwhile, Orlando flees his brother Oliver’s deadly plot, accompanied by the loyal Adam. Rosalind, disguised as Ganymede, arrives in the forest with Celia and Touchstone, purchasing a shepherd’s home. The act juxtaposes courtly intrigue with rustic charm, setting the stage for romantic entanglements and philosophical musings on nature, love, and the folly of human existence.
Scene-wise Summary of “As You Like It” Act II
| Scene | Summary |
|---|---|
| Scene 1 | Duke Senior enjoys the simple life in the Forest of Arden. He finds happiness in nature and believes adversity has its benefits. However, he feels guilty about hunting animals in their own home. Jaques, a melancholic lord, is found near a brook, pitying a wounded deer. The Duke, amused by Jaques’ emotions, wishes to speak with him. |
| Scene 2 | Duke Frederick learns that Rosalind, Celia, and Touchstone have disappeared. He suspects Orlando might be with them. He orders that Orlando or his elder brother, Oliver, be brought to him. This creates a reason for Oliver to later enter the forest. |
| Scene 3 | Orlando returns home and is warned by the loyal servant Adam that Oliver plans to kill him. Adam offers Orlando his life savings and begs to accompany him. Touched by Adam’s kindness, Orlando agrees, and they both flee to the Forest of Arden. |
| Scene 4 | Rosalind (disguised as Ganymede), Celia (as Aliena), and Touchstone arrive in the forest. They meet two shepherds, Silvius and Corin. Silvius is deeply in love with Phebe, who does not return his love. Rosalind and Celia decide to buy a cottage and farmland from Corin and settle in the forest. |
| Scene 5 | Amiens, a lord, sings a song about the simple life in the forest. Jaques, always sarcastic, asks for another song but then mocks it. His gloomy nature contrasts with the cheerful atmosphere of the Duke’s men. |
| Scene 6 | Orlando and Adam, tired and starving, struggle in the forest. Adam, weak from hunger, cannot continue. Orlando promises to find him food and shelter, showing his noble and caring nature. |
| Scene 7 | Duke Senior and Jaques discuss life. Jaques delivers his famous “Seven Ages of Man” speech, describing life from birth to old age. Orlando enters with his sword, demanding food for Adam. Duke Senior welcomes him kindly, and Orlando apologizes. Orlando brings Adam, and the Duke invites them to share a meal. The scene ends with a song about the harshness of winter but the warmth of friendship. |
As You Like It Act-2 Quiz
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