English 365 Spring 2012  As You Like It

Response due Friday, Feb. 3: one-page single-spaced, on one of the following two options. Be sure to show your specific understanding of the play in your response, referring to specific incidents, and for most topics probably using some quotations from the play as well. The responses will be graded Pass + (for responses that really impress me with evidence of thought), Pass (for responses that do a good job), Pass – (for responses that fall down in some category, Fail (for responses not turned in or really bad). Note: spelling and grammar count, so be sure to proofread.

Option 1:

What is the play saying about how best to love? Look at the various couples and of course Rosalind and Orlando. Do you agree? Focus on the play to show your understanding of Shakespeare, but we are interested in your thoughts on the subject as well.

Option 2:

It is a truism that fools in Shakespeare’s plays often tell the “truth.” What “truth” or perspective is provided on this play by Jacques or Touchstone? Choose one and discuss the importance of (or not) of “fool-talk.” (Since Jacques wants to be a fool, we will consider him in this category, even though he is not officially employed as a fool.)