Foreshadowing
As You Like It
by William Shakespeare

As You Like It: Foreshadowing 2 key examples

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Definition of Foreshadowing

Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the story. Foreshadowing can be achieved directly or indirectly, by making... read full definition
Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the story. Foreshadowing can be achieved... read full definition
Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the... read full definition
Act 1, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—No News But Old News:

​​In the first scene of the play, Charles the wrestler reports the news from Duke Senior's court to Oliver. His report foreshadows many of the play's key plot points:

There’s no news at the court, sir, but the old news. That is, the old duke is banished by his younger brother the new duke, and three or four loving lords have put themselves into voluntary exile with him, whose lands and revenues enrich the new duke. Therefore he gives them good leave to wander.                                

Act 3, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Like a Hunter :

In Act 3, Scene 2, Celia reveals to Rosalind that Orlando is the one leaving love letters tacked to the trees in the Forest of Arden, and that she has seen him there that morning. Rosalind’s reaction foreshadows elements of her dynamic with Orlando going forward:

Celia: [...] He was furnished like a hunter. 

Rosalind: O, ominous! He comes to kill my heart.   

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