Cross-Dressing in Shakespeare's Plays

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how cross-dressing is an important element that renders serious repercussions in Shakespeare?s plays. Two plays that emphasize cross-dressing and its repercussions are "Twelfth Night" and "As You Like It". The writer points out that, while the characters of Viola and Rosalind have very different reasons to explain their cross-dressing, each circumstance, while causing complications, also works in their behalf. It explains how their ability to fool those around them generates interest and adds an element of complexity to each play, namely, that each woman is able to accomplish something she would not have been able to do as a woman. Rosalind teaches Orlando the ways of love, and Viola makes her way into Orsino's house and heart.

From the Paper:

"In As You Like It, Rosalind is forced to assume to role of a man as a result of fleeing the Duke's Court and seeking refuge in the forest of Arden. Her logic stems from the fact that "beauty provoketh thieves sooner than gold" (I.iii.107). She also believes that because she is "more common than tall" (I.iii.113), she could easily pass for a man. Rosalind also realizes that she must do more than dress for the occasion--she must also act the past. She declares that she will leave her fear in her heart and "have a swashing and a martial outside,/As many other mannish cowards have" (I.iii.117-8). Rosalind is forced to dress as a man but she also assumes the role with confidence and excitement."

More papers on Cross-Dressing in Shakespeare's Plays:

• Analytical Essay # 40385 : "Women in Shakespeare Plays"
• Analytical Essay # 107565 : "Gender in "Twelfth Night"
• Book Review # 100484 : "Comedy in "Twelfth Night"

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