Why is 'As You Like It' described as a comedy?

As You Like It is described as a comedy as it portrays many comic traits. As L.J Potts (1996:99) states '[its] structure [....] follows a pattern appropriate to comedy,' and it gives rein to humour in dramatic situations. The themes that are so common in comedy dramas such as searching, disguise, night to day movement, self discovery, marriage, tragic overtones and monetary interest are all predominant throughout the play. The turning of man to …

…unrealistic mention of a magician seems appropriate in this drama. All in all As You Like It can be described as one of the best Shakespearian dramas ever written. Bibliography Northop Fry. (1957). The Ritual of Comedy. In: Moelwyn Merchant. Comedy, The Critical Idiom. London. Methuen and Co LTD. Arnold Hare. (1978). English Comedy. In: W.D Howarth. Comic Drama, The European Heritage. London. Methuen and Co LTD. L.J Potts. (1996:). Comedy. London. Hutchinson and Co LTD.