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MonkeyNotes-The Merry Wives of Windsor by William Shakespeare
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PLOT

In The Merry Wives of Windsor, Shakespeare masterfully and humorously weaves a main plot and a sub-plot that overlap because of characters in the play. The central plot revolves around the wives of Windsor's efforts to expose Falstaff as the true scoundrel that he is. The plot is classically developed with the opening scenes giving an introduction to the major characters, the setting, and the situations around which the action will develop. The rising action of the main plot begins with Falstaff's assumption that he can seduce two wives of Windsor - Mrs. Ford and Mrs. Page, who are friends. He sends both of them identical love letters, suggesting to each that he would like to become involved with them. The two women are horrified at Falstaff's suggestion, as well as his boldness. They plot together to humiliate the man. The first meeting ends with Falstaff being thrown in the river. The second meeting ends with his being dressed as an old, unrespected woman who is thoroughly beaten by Mr. Ford. All of this rising action points to the climax, when Falstaff will be tormented in the forest and fully exposed for his waywardness. The falling action of the main plot is very brief, with Mr. Page and Mr. Ford explaining to the scoundrel how he has been fully duped. The conclusion, or denouement, shows a changed Falstaff, giving hope that he has learned his lesson.


Closely related to the main plot is the sub-plot, which revolves around Anne Page and her suitors. Mr. Page wants her to marry Slender and arranges for him to elope with his daughter from the forest gathering. Mrs. Page wants Anne to marry Dr. Caius and arranges an elopement for him and her daughter at the same time. Without either parent knowing it, Anne has arranged her own marriage - to Fenton. This entire sub-plot is woven into the main plot. The characters and problem of the sub-lot are introduced in the first few scenes of the play. The rising action is interspersed and shows each of the suitors seeking to woo Anne. The climax occurs when Anne and Fenton are married by the vicar, which Fenton has arranged through the host. The falling action is seen when the newlyweds announce their marriage to Anne's surprised parents. The conclusion shows the Pages accepting their new son-in-law. Therefore, both the main plot and the sub- plot end as comedies, with the protagonist winning a victory and gaining happiness.

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MonkeyNotes-The Merry Wives of Windsor by William Shakespeare

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