ful of all Shakespeare's plays; but its interest
is primarily aesthetic, not intellectual. For this reason it is extremely
difficult to devise any satisfactory plan of study. The enthusiastic
teacher will find ways of imparting enthusiasm to his pupils, but he
cannot tell how he does it.

If this is not the first of Shakespeare's plays for the class to study,
a review of what they have previously learned about the author and his
work will make a good beginning; otherwise the best introduction is the
reading of the play.

II. First Reading

_As You Like It_ is one of the plays that best repays oral reading,
therefore the finest passages, at least, should be read aloud. But the
chief purpose of the first reading is to get a clear idea of the
development of the story. To this end the student should understand the
purpose of each act and the relation of the scenes to one another.

III. Second Reading and Study

Attention should now be given to the explanation of unusual words and
constructions, to the interpretation of important passages, to the study
of plot and character, and to memorizing the best passages.

IV. Study of the Play as a Whole

SETTING AND SITUATION.--What sort of place is the Forest of Arden? Does
it seem attractive? Why? Describe the life that the natives lead.

Contrast the life of the Duke, Rosalind, Celia, and their friends in the
forest with the life at court.

What chances had Shakespeare had to observe the different kinds of life
portrayed here?

PLOT.--Show the steps of the plot from its beginning in I, 2 to its
climax in III, 2, and from the climax to the conclusion.

Compare this play with _The Merchant of Venice_ in respect to tragic
features and to simplicity.

Why are the minor love stories introduced?

CHARACTERS.--Contrast Orlando and Oliver as they are first presented.

What is there to give us a good impression of Orlando before he does
anything to earn it? Show how our good opinion of him is strengthened by
his actions in I, 2; II, 6; IV, 3, etc.

What first prejudices us in favor of Rosalind? How does the author use
Celia to make us like Rosalind the more? What characteristics are
brought out to give us further admiration for Rosalind in II, 4; III, 2;
III, 4; IV, 3; V, 2, etc.?

What is the chief characteristic of Jacques that distinguishes him from
his companions? How is his view of life made to add to our appreciation
of the life in the forest? Note how many