Jaques (As You Like It) Jaques (As You Like It) Jaques () is one of the main characters in Shakespeare's "As You Like It". The 'Melancholy Jaques', as he is known, is one of Duke Senior's noblemen who lives with him in the Forest of Arden (or Ardennes). The role has long been a favourite for famous Shakespearean actors. Jaques' distinguishing characteristic is his unmitigated cynicism. He is the only purely contemplative character in Shakespeare. He thinks, and does nothing. His whole occupation is to amuse his mind, and he is totally regardless of his body and his fortunes. Hazlitt describes him as "the prince
Characters in As You Like It Characters in As You Like It The following is a list of characters in William Shakespeare's "As You Like It". Duke Frederick is the younger brother of Duke Senior. Prior to the play he usurps power from his older brother. His hatefulness and paranoia are displayed when he banishes Rosalind, the daughter Duke Senior. However, at the end of the play, as Duke Frederick brings his army towards the forest to kill his brother, he happens upon a old priest who convinces him to take up the monastic life of peace and simplicity. Celia is the daughter of Duke Frederick.