Ironic, “All’s Well That Ends Well” is actually one of Shakespeare’s “problem plays”, says Wikipedia, because critics can’t be sure it should be set apart as the comedy it was originally classified as. The title is a proverb meaning, that a good ending or result is worth all the work, trials and sacrifice one puts into it.
So Helena is a “gentlewomen” protected by the mother of Count Bertram, Countess of Rousillon. Helena is secretly in love with Bertram but he is a Lord and she a simpleton. Throughout the play, however, Helena proves herself to be anything but simple. Helena was the daughter of a brilliant surgeon; she saves the King from a terminal illness and in return is permitted to marry the Lord of her choice. Bertram didn’t stand a chance but runs off to war just after being married thinking death to be a better alternative to such a marriage. After leaving for war Bertram writes Helena, “When though canst get the ring upon my finger, which never shall come off, and show me a child begotten of they body that I am father to, then call me husband.”
The affable Helena easily obtains the assistance of Diana, a young maiden that Bertram confessed he would lie with. Like a champion of sales persons Helena successfully performs a “bait and switch” maneuver. Switching places with Diana at the last moment to obtaining Bertram’s ring and all other required items, Helena wins Bertram’s faith and love. So he promises to “love her dearly, ever, ever dearly”.
Gee Whiz, Shakespeare really was brilliant. He knew even then that men don’t stand a chance, but all’s well that ends well eh. :-)
No comments:
Post a Comment