ROSALIND: It is not the fashion to see the lady the epilogue; but it is no more unhandsome than to see the lord the prologue. If it be true that good wine needs no bush, 'tis true that a good play needs no epilogue. Yet to good wine they do use good bushes, and good plays prove the better by the help of good epilogues. What a case am I in then, that am…
Rosalind's Epilogue — As You Like It
Rosalind breaks the fourth wall to deliver the play's epilogue, playfully acknowledging the conventions of theater and gender. She charms the audience by 'conjuring' both the men and women to like the play, using wit and a reference to her own cross-dressing disguise to secure their applause.
Format: Monologue · Genre: Comedy · Source: As You Like It · Author: William Shakespeare · Characters: Rosalind
About This Scene
This monologue features Rosalind, the central character of William Shakespeare's beloved comedy, addressing the audience directly in the play's epilogue. It's a charming and witty address where she playfully acknowledges the theatrical conventions of her time, including the unusual choice for a woman to deliver the epilogue. Her purpose is to secure a positive reception for the play, which she achieves through clever wordplay and an engaging, direct appeal to both the men and women in the audience, referencing her own journey and disguise.
Character Analysis
Rosalind, as presented here, is intelligent, confident, and highly charismatic. She possesses a keen wit, evidenced by her self-aware humor and ability to turn traditional expectations on their head. Her tone is direct yet inviting, making the audience feel personally addressed and charmed by her presence. Despite her earlier cross-dressing disguise throughout the play, in this epilogue, she fully embraces her female identity while still subtly alluding to her past actions in disguise.
Why This Works for Auditions
This monologue is an excellent choice for auditions because it showcases a performer's ability to connect directly with an audience, demonstrating presence and charisma. The witty language allows for strong comedic timing and the opportunity to reveal a character who is both intelligent and endearing. Its duration of approximately one minute is ideal for many audition settings, allowing the actor to make a strong impression without overstaying their welcome. The fourth-wall-breaking nature also highlights an actor's comfort and adaptability.
Best Suited For
This piece is particularly well-suited for actors auditioning for classical roles, especially in comedic Shakespearean productions. It’s perfect for those aiming for roles that require a quick wit, charming demeanor, and a strong stage presence such as a leading lady or an ingenue type with a sophisticated edge. It is also an excellent choice for drama school auditions, agent showcases, or general practice, providing a robust opportunity to display a range of performance skills.
Performance Tips
When performing this monologue, focus on Rosalind's direct address to the audience; imagine you are truly charming them into liking the play. Play with the shifts in her appeal, first to the women, then to the men, savoring the playful implication behind each charge. Embrace the wit and allow the natural rhythm of Shakespeare's language to guide your delivery, but ensure your delivery remains conversational and genuine. Highlight Rosalind's confidence and self-awareness, allowing her intelligence to shine through her charmingly direct approach.