Phoebe and Silvius in the Forest of Arden, from Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ (18
Phoebe and Silvius in the Forest of Arden, from Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ (1853). Daniel Maclise (Irish, 1806-1870). Oil on canvas. The New Art Gallery Walsall.Silvius is a young shepherd who represents the romantic lover. He is madly in love with Phoebe, a rural girl who does not return his love. Silvius is a typical dejected lover who has no self-respect. Phoebe treats him in an indifferent manner and exploits him to acquire the love of Ganymede whom she loves. She constantly rebukes and insults Silvius, yet he longs for her love. Rosalind feels sympathy for him and scolds him for having become a 'tame snake’ because of his passion for Phoebe. Finally, he marries Phoebe with the clever manipulation of Rosalind. -- source link
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