Play description

ACT I

Scene 1. Orlando, the youngest son of Sir Rowland de Boys, has been kept "rustically at home" by his

older brother, Oliver; he has been denied his inheritance and any formal education. When Orlando

demands his birthright, the brothers come to blows. Charles the wrestler describes how the old Duke

has been banished by his younger brother Frederick and has gone to live in the Forest of Arden. His

daughter Rosalind has stayed at court with Celia, Frederick's daughter. Hearing that Charles and

Orlando are to wrestle the following day, Oliver lies to Charles, claiming that Orlando intends, if

necessary, to resort to foul play in order to win the fight.

Scene 2. The courtier Le Beau urges Rosalind and Celia to watch the wrestling. They try to persuade

the youthful Orlando not to fight, but he is determined to go ahead and succeeds in beating Charles.

Frederick congratulates the victor but is displeased to learn of his parentage. Le Beau suggests that,

the Duke being so unpredictable, Orlando would be wise to leave the court. Orlando, who has fallen

for the "heavenly Rosalind," follows his advice.