As You Like It geographical details are irrelevant. The Arden edition of Shakespeare makes the suggestion that the name "Arden" comes from a combination of the classical region of Arcadia and the biblical garden of Eden, as there is a strong interplay of classical and Christian belief systems and philosophies within the play. Arden was also the maiden name of Shakespeare's mother and her family home is located within the Forest of Arden. Love is the central theme of "As You Like It", like other romantic comedies of Shakespeare. Following the tradition of a romantic comedy, "As You Like It" is a tale of
Orlando (As You Like It) Orlando (As You Like It) Orlando is a fictional character and the male lead in the comedy "As You Like It" (1599/1600) by William Shakespeare. Orlando is the younger son of the deceased Sir Rowland de Boys and brother of Oliver. He is brave, chivalrous, tender, modest, smart, strong, handsome and beloved by all. He resents the harsh treatment he receives at Oliver's hands and complains that Oliver is neglecting to educate him; Orlando feels that he is being "kept" like livestock. Nevertheless, he is not successful in expressing his love for Rosalind to her before he leaves to the