As You Like It · Chapter
Scene V explained
In the forest, Silvius pleads with Phebe not to scorn him, but she rebuffs him harshly.
What happens
In the forest, Silvius pleads with Phebe not to scorn him, but she rebuffs him harshly. Rosalind, Celia, and Corin observe from behind. Rosalind intervenes, scolding Phebe for her pride and lack of beauty, and urges her to accept Silvius's love. Phebe becomes infatuated with Rosalind (disguised as Ganymede) instead. After Rosalind leaves, Phebe quotes Marlowe's line about love at first sight and decides to write a taunting letter to the youth, asking Silvius to deliver it.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
The scene explores unrequited love, the power dynamics of courtship, and the sudden onset of love at first sight, as Phebe falls for Ganymede.
Disguise and Deception
Rosalind's male disguise as Ganymede leads to Phebe's mistaken attraction, creating a comic and ironic love triangle.
Characters to notice
- Silvius
Pleads with Phebe for her love, is scorned, but agrees to carry her letter to Ganymede.
- Phebe
Rejects Silvius, is scolded by Rosalind, and falls in love with Ganymede at first sight.
- Rosalind
Disguised as Ganymede, chides Phebe for her pride and inadvertently attracts Phebe's affection.
- Celia
Present with Rosalind and Corin, observing the exchange.
- Corin
Accompanies Rosalind and Celia, watching the scene.
Key passages
“Sweet Phebe, do not scorn me; do not, Phebe; Say that you love me not, but say not so In bitterness.”
Gentle Phebe, don't reject me harshly; you can tell me you don't love me, but don't say it with cruelty.
Silvius pleads for kindness even in rejection.
“Who ever loved that loved not at first sight?”
Has anyone ever fallen in love without it happening at first sight?
Phebe quotes Marlowe, acknowledging her sudden infatuation with Ganymede.
“I had rather hear you chide than this man woo.”
I would prefer to listen to your scolding than to this man's courtship.
Phebe tells Ganymede she prefers his angry words to Silvius's loving pleas.