As You Like It LRJ #4

Natalie Mironov
Ms. Peifer
English 10 IB, Hr 4
16 March 2009

As You Like It: Act 4

Orlando's main objective in this act is to learn how to win over Rosalind. He asks Ganymede questions, inquiring, "How if the kiss be denied?" (4.1.83), and "Who could be out, being before his beloved mistress?" (4.1.86-87), showing he wants to learn how to better act around her. When he has to leave to eat dinner with the duke he promises to be back by two and Ganymede says, "If you break one jot of your promise or come one minute behind your hour, I will think you the most pathetical break-promise, and the most hollow lover, and the most unworthy of her you call Rosalind that may be chosen out of the gross band of the unfaithful" (4.1.201-206). This shows how important this promise is to Ganymede so Orlando is forced to make a tough decision when he encounters his brother in the forest about to be attacked by a lioness. He debated walking away so that he could keep his promise to Ganymede because Oliver says, "Twice did he turn his back and purposed so, but kindness, nobler ever than revenge, and nature, stronger than his just occasion, made him give battle to the lioness" (4.3.135-137). These qualities in Orlando show how he truly is a gentleman, even without the gentleman's education he desires. It shows his kindness, even to someone who had been as cruel to him as Oliver.

Along with this display of goodness to Oliver, Ganymede asks Orlando questions of marriage, to which Orlando replies that he would love Rosalind "forever and a day" (4.1.152). He also tells Ganymede, "I take some joy to say you are because I would be talking to her" (4.1.94-95), meaning he enjoys pretending Ganymede is Rosalind because it would mean he was able to talk to her everyday. These statements tell of Orlando's true character as devoted and loving, and overall, a gentleman.

Through this all Orlando and Oliver's relationship has changed from one of utter loathing to caring brothers once more. Oliver says that, "In brief, he led me to the gentle duke, who gave me fresh array and entertainment, committing me unto my brother's love" (4.3.151-153). This change proves Orlando to be honorable and forgiving as well.