As You Like It (Wordsworth Classics)

As You Like It (Wordsworth Classics) Book Description

Readers will discover why As You Like It (Wordsworth Classics) remains a beloved Shakespeare comedy. Edited, introduced, and annotated by Cedric Watts, Research Professor of English at the University of Sussex, this edition brings fresh insight to a play that blends lyricism, melancholy, satire, and absurdity. The story follows a bewildered group of lovers, a clever heroine in disguise, and a tangled web of mistaken identities that ends in several joyful marriages.

Fans of romantic comedy will enjoy the play’s witty banter and pastoral charm. Meanwhile, the script explores deeper themes such as the fluidity of gender, the nature of happiness, and the contrast between court life and forest freedom. Moreover, the ironic mix of pastoral artifice and philosophical reflection keeps the work fresh for modern audiences.

Inside this compact paperback, you will find helpful footnotes that explain archaic language and cultural references. Additionally, the scholarly introduction sets the scene, offering context about Elizabethan theatre and Shakespeare’s creative process. Therefore, both students and casual readers can appreciate the text without feeling overwhelmed.

Key Features of As You Like It (Wordsworth Classics)

Each page measures 12 cm × 19 cm, making the book easy to hold and read. The 128‑page volume contains a clear, modern layout that respects the original verse while enhancing readability. Furthermore, the ISBN‑10 1853260592 and ISBN‑13 9781853260599 guarantee you are purchasing the correct edition.

Because the edition is brand‑new, the binding is sturdy and the paper is of high quality. Also, the lightweight design (22 grams shipping weight) means the book ships quickly and costs less to send. Readers can explore themes of love, identity, and nature without dealing with bulky, outdated formats.

Why Read This Book?

Many readers find Shakespeare’s language intimidating, but this edition’s annotations break down complex passages into simple explanations. Consequently, you can follow the plot’s twists—such as Rosalind’s disguise as Ganymede—and still enjoy the poetic beauty of the original text. Additionally, the play’s humor appeals to a wide audience, from students studying literature to theater lovers attending live performances.

Moreover, the timeless message that “the world is a stage” resonates in today’s fast‑paced life. Readers will learn that freedom and authenticity often lie beyond societal expectations, a lesson that remains relevant centuries after the play was written.

About This Book

This Wordsworth Classics edition offers a reliable, affordable way to experience one of Shakespeare’s greatest comedies. With a scholarly introduction, detailed annotations, and a portable format, it serves as an excellent addition to any classics collection. Explore the forest of Arden, fall in love with Rosalind, and enjoy the witty repartee that makes As You Like It (Wordsworth Classics) a must‑read.

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