The Role of Music and Song in As You Like It

In William Shakespeare's enchanting comedy "As You Like It," music and song play a pivotal role in conveying themes, developing characters, advancing the plot, and reflecting the cultural context of Elizabethan England. This article delves into the significance of music and song in the play, exploring how they contribute to its overall meaning and impact.

I. Music As A Thematic Device

Music in "As You Like It" serves as a powerful thematic device, enhancing the play's central themes of love, identity, and transformation.

• Love: Music expresses the various facets of love, from the passionate longing of Orlando and Rosalind to the playful courtship between Touchstone and Audrey. Songs like "Under the Greenwood Tree" and "It Was a Lover and His Lass" capture the joy and exuberance of love.
• Identity: Music helps explore the theme of identity and self-discovery. Characters like Rosalind and Celia disguise themselves and adopt new identities, and music reflects their inner struggles and transformations. Songs like "What Shall He Have That Killed the Deer?" and "Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind" convey the characters' emotional journeys.
• Transformation: Music underscores the transformative power of the Forest of Arden, where characters undergo significant changes. Songs like "When Icicles Hang by the Wall" and "Hey, Ho, the Wind and the Rain" evoke the magical atmosphere of the forest and its ability to inspire personal growth.

II. Music As A Character Development Tool

Music in "As You Like It" plays a crucial role in developing and revealing the characters.

• Rosalind: Music expresses Rosalind's wit, intelligence, and resilience. Her songs, such as "Love's Labour's Lost" and "It Was a Lover and His Lass," showcase her playful nature and her ability to navigate the complexities of love and identity.
• Orlando: Music reveals Orlando's passionate and romantic nature. His songs, like "What Shall He Have That Killed the Deer?" and "My Heart is Full of Woe," express his longing for Rosalind and his determination to win her love.
• Touchstone: Music highlights Touchstone's comedic and satirical nature. His songs, such as "A Fool, a Fool! I Met a Fool i' the Forest" and "The Cuckoo Sings Cuckoo," provide comic relief and commentary on the play's themes.

III. Music As A Plot Device

Music in "As You Like It" is skillfully employed to advance the plot and create dramatic tension.

• Scene Transitions: Music is used to transition between scenes, creating a smooth flow and maintaining the play's momentum.
• Foreshadowing: Music can foreshadow upcoming events or reveal hidden truths. For instance, the song "Under the Greenwood Tree" hints at the eventual resolution of the play's conflicts.
• Creating Atmosphere: Music helps create a specific atmosphere or mood for a scene. The melancholic strains of "Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind" evoke a sense of sadness and longing, while the lively rhythms of "Hey, Ho, the Wind and the Rain" convey a sense of joy and celebration.

IV. Music As A Reflection Of Elizabethan Culture

The music in "As You Like It" reflects the musical trends and styles of Elizabethan England.

• Madrigals: Madrigals, a popular form of vocal music during the Elizabethan era, are featured in the play. These polyphonic songs, such as "It Was a Lover and His Lass," showcase the skill and artistry of the Elizabethan composers.
• Folk Songs: Folk songs, with their simple melodies and relatable lyrics, are also incorporated into the play. Songs like "Under the Greenwood Tree" and "Hey, Ho, the Wind and the Rain" capture the rustic charm and simplicity of Elizabethan folk music.
• Instruments: Various instruments, such as lutes, recorders, and viols, are mentioned or played in the play. These instruments were commonly used in Elizabethan music and contribute to the play's authentic historical atmosphere.

V. Conclusion

Music and song play a multifaceted role in "As You Like It," enhancing its themes, developing its characters, advancing its plot, and reflecting the cultural context of Elizabethan England. Through its evocative melodies, poignant lyrics, and skillful use of musical devices, the play's music creates a rich and immersive experience that captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impression.

Music in Shakespeare's plays is not merely an accessory; it is an integral part of the storytelling, contributing significantly to the overall impact and meaning of the work. "As You Like It" stands as a testament to Shakespeare's mastery in weaving music and drama together, creating a harmonious tapestry that resonates with audiences across time.