Jaquess Perspective in Shakespeares As You Like It Essay -- Shakespe

Jaquess Perspective in As You Like It A cynics cynic might declare Jaques no better than the guy who lurks in corners at a cocktail party, lobbing witty barbs at anyone unlucky enough to catch his eye. But this assessment robs Shakespeares comedy of its sociological depth what might be pleasurable fluff about young people in love is enhanced by Jaquess ability to make stern judgments about the world, yet still honor the people who comprise it. Indeed, Jaques observes astutely from the sidelines. He separates himself from what he considers the frivolity of making suitable marriage matches. But Jaquess speeches are not merely Shakespeares devices for explication. There is a psychological middle ground between the court and the forest, and the ideals closest to those who think little are, in Jaquess eyes, admirable. His words make him the most egalitarian character in the play. From his first speech, Jaques paints himself as a moody loner and as rather disdainful of his benefactor, Duke Senior. He says, And I have been all this day to ...