Arts >> Theater >> Stage Acting

What does His acts being seven ages mean?

In the play, "As You Like It" by William Shakespeare, the character Jaques says, "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts, his acts being seven ages." This line does not refer to God's acts, but rather to the different stages, or ages, of human life. The seven ages are generally understood to be:

1. Infancy: From birth to about seven years old, when children are largely dependent on their parents or guardians.

2. Childhood: From about seven to fourteen years old, when children become more independent and start to learn and explore the world around them.

3. Youth: From about fourteen to twenty-one years old, when individuals begin to take on more responsibilities and may start to pursue higher education or careers.

4. Adulthood: From about twenty-one to forty years old, when people typically establish themselves in their careers and families.

5. Middle Age: From about forty to sixty years old, when people may experience a sense of accomplishment and stability in their lives.

6. Old Age: From about sixty to eighty years old, when individuals may begin to experience physical and mental decline.

7. Senescence: From about eighty years old onwards, when individuals may require assistance with daily activities.

Jaques' line suggests that human life is like a play, with different characters (men and women) playing different roles (ages) as they progress through life. The seven ages represent a common understanding of the different stages of human life, from birth to old age, and how people's roles and responsibilities change as they age.

Stage Acting

Related Categories