In what ways is this view of belonging represented in your prescribed text and at least ONE other related text of your own choosing?
Belonging is a sense of enlightenment felt when an individual gains an understanding of themselves in relation to others and the wider world. William Shakespeare’s pastoral play ‘As You Like It’ and the bildungsroman ‘Looking For Alibrandi’ written by Melina Marchetta examine not only how our perceptions of belonging are affected by the passage of time, but how our interactions with the world around us can shape us. Individuals seek connection in an attempt to find happiness, acceptance and ultimately a sense of belonging. Whether the setting is the Forest of Arden, the Aristocratic Court or the Inner West of Sydney and St. Martha’s Catholic High, a sense of belonging is altered and changed due to an individual’s journey with time and their surroundings.
Both the passage of time and where we see ourselves in the world, our place in it and our interaction with it have a profound influence on the characters and events in ‘As You Like It’. The relationship between lady Rosalind and Orlando is an example of how time can shape an outcome and present a sense of belonging. Rosalind learns to love and accept Orlando through the progression of the play.
The allusion “cupid hath clapped him on the shoulder” depicts the uncertainty Rosalind possesses towards Orlando’s alleged love for her. The reference to Cupid, links the connotation of a strong infatuation that Orlando has for Rosalind.
The contrast in the turn of events and feelings throughout the play is evident when Rosalind confesses to Celia “I cannot be out of sight of the Orlando.” This confession translates the grown acceptance and romance conjured by Rosalind as a result of the radical extremes Orlando went to publically showcase his love, e.g. bulleting his