Rosalind Gender Roles

While referring to “As you like it,” by William Shakespeare, Juliet Dusinberre concludes that “The part of Rosalind manifests an awareness of gender as performance” (9). This statement is exemplified throughout the play as Rosalind is able to demonstrate the performance of gender through her portrayal of Ganymede, and how she is liberated by the ability to be seen in a different light. Gender as a performance is a concept that is particularly evident in Shakespeare’s time. Rosalind originally disguises herself in order to reach the forest safely. Once she does so, however, she decides to remain incognito. This decision is important in analysing her character, as well as the role of gender in society. Women and men during this time period had set roles in society, which were expected to be followed. Rosalind’s character is significant in that she embodies this view, as she is able to assume the position of a man, and “perform” it convincingly. For most of the play, Rosalind poses as a young man, Ganymede, in order to avoid the limitations of being a woman, as well as to “woo”(3.3. 435) Orlando. The decision to remain undercover longer than truly necessary can be attributed to the realization that men enjoy considerably more freedom, and are more respected. While taking on the appearance of the young man, she meets Orlando, the man she loves, in the woods, “I could cure you, if you just called me Rosalind and came by my cottage every day to woo me” (3.3. 433-435). She