Briefly Describe the Sub-Plot in As You Like It.

Answer

Briefly describe the sub-plot in “As You Like It.” 

Or, Comment on the triangle among the Silvius-Phebe-Rosalind in “As You Like It.”

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is the most influential English dramatist. He creates not only bold and remarkable heroines but also interesting subplots in his plays. The Silvius-Phoebe-Rosalind subplot is such an interesting story in the famous romantic comedy “As You Like It” (1623). 

Silvius’s Love for Phoebe: Silvius is a young shepherd. He passionately loves the arrogant Phoebe. However, Phoebe does not feel the same. She often mocks him and treats him poorly. Silvius remains loyal despite her rejection. Silvius expresses the intensity of his emotions. He says, 

“O Phoebe, Phoebe, Phoebe!”

Here, Silvius repeats her name as if his whole world revolves around her. So, the audience feels pity for Silvius’s addiction to Phoebe.

Phoebe’s Love for Ganymede: Silvius loves Phoebe, but Phoebe is infatuated with Ganymede. Here, the exciting part is that Ganymede is not a male personality. Rosalind has disguised herself as Ganymede. Rosalind warns Phoebe,

“I pray you, do not fall in love with me.”

Phoebe’s love for Ganymede makes the romantic scene more complex. 

Rosalind’s Clever Plan: Rosalind, as Ganymede, realizes the situation and decides to teach Phoebe a lesson. She pretends to accept Phoebe’s love. She makes her promise to marry Silvius if Phoebe cannot marry Ganymede. Rosalind uses her disguise to guide the situation wisely.

Happy Ending and Marriage: In the end, Rosalind reveals her true identity. Phoebe realizes she cannot marry Ganymede since he is actually a woman. She finally agrees to marry Silvius. This subplot ends happily with Silvius’s love rewarded and all misunderstandings cleared.

The Silvius-Phoebe-Rosalind subplot shows the twists of love. It portrays unreturned love and pride. Rosalind’s cleverness solves the problems. In the end, true love wins. It brings joy and unity.