You are in: home > about the play > the story

Valentine, a gentleman of Verona, leaves the city to work in service for the Duke of Milan. His friend Proteus, remains behind to be near to the woman he loves – Julia. When Proteus’s father orders him to attend the Duke’s court, he is forced to leave Julia behind but swears an oath of constancy to her.

When he arrives in Milan, Proteus discovers that Valentine has fallen in love with the Duke’s daughter Silvia. The Duke however, wants Sylvia to marry the wealthy and idiotic Thurio.

Valentine confides in his friend Proteus and reveals his plans to elope with Sylvia. But Proteus has also become infatuated with Sylvia and betrays the plans to the Duke. When Valentine is discovered carrying a rope ladder, he is banished from Milan. In the wilderness he encounters a band of outlaws and is elected their leader.

Julia, disguised for her safety as a boy called Sebastian, arrives in Milan in search of Proteus. She is devastated when she accidentally overhears him declare his passion for Sylvia. In her disguise as Sebastian she enters Proteus’ service as a page.

Proteus sends Sebastian (Julia) with a message to Sylvia and Julia is encouraged to find that his advances have been rejected. Sylvia remains faithful to Valentine and with the help of Sir Eglamour, escapes from Milan into the forest to join Valentine.

The Duke and Thurio set out in pursuit, followed by Proteus and Julia (who is still in disguise as Sebastian).

Sylvia, captured by the outlaws in the forest, is rescued by Proteus. She again spurns him, and he tries to rape her. Valentine intervenes and rescues her.

Proteus is forced to confront his act of betrayal. Julia reveals her identity as Sebastian, and a reconciliation begins.