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Exploring Shakespeare, 1599-1600: As You Like It

Sat 14 Feb

Study Session led by Clare Smout (3 hours)


As You Like It – Shakespeare flaunts his skills. The heroine who disguises as a boy and then redisguises as a parody of herself? The comedy climaxing in not one but four marriages? A pastoral shepherdess and a goat girl? More songs and poems than any other Shakespeare play? Definitely designed to put their rivals at the Rose in the shade! Come and enjoy! 


"1599-1600: the year that launched the Globe.” This season explores the 4 plays Shakespeare wrote at the height of his career to kick-start the new Globe Theatre: an English history (Henry V), a Roman history (Julius Caesar), a comedy (As You Like It) and a tragedy (Hamlet). We also look at what his rivals at the Rose Theatre next door were doing in response to this threat. 

These friendly interactive sessions include an introductory talk, group discussion (on characters, themes, language and staging), and video clips showing a variety of interpretations. There is a break midway for coffee and cake. 

These events are suitable for those aged 18 and over. 

Clare Smout is a locally-based Shakespeare specialist. She spent the first half of her career in professional theatre, the second in academic research and teaching. Clare has taught Shakespeare to students of all ages, including at the University of Birmingham and the University of Cambridge’s Institute of Continuing Education. 

For further information contact shakespeare.courses@smout.org

Duration:: 180 mins

14 Feb 2026 - 14:00 @ Studio Two Exploring Shakespeare, 1599-1600: As You Like It Book Now