Longaville is one of the main characters in William Shakespeare's play, Love's Labour's Lost. He is a young nobleman and a close friend of the King of Navarre, along with Berowne and Dumaine. Longaville is portrayed as a well-mannered and intelligent individual, known for his wit and loyalty.
Longaville, like his friends, takes a vow of celibacy and dedicates himself to three years of studying and self-improvement. However, this vow is soon tested when the Princess of France and her ladies arrive at the court of Navarre. Longaville, along with his friends, immediately falls in love with one of the ladies, Maria.
Longaville's infatuation with Maria becomes a central theme in the play. Despite his vow, he cannot resist the feelings that arise within him. This internal conflict between love and duty adds depth to his character and showcases the complexities of human emotions.
Throughout the play, Longaville undergoes a significant transformation. Initially, he is a staunch supporter of the king's decree, determined to remain faithful to his studies. However, as the plot unfolds, Longaville finds himself torn between his love for Maria and his allegiance to his friends and their shared oath.
This conflict reaches its climax in Act IV, Scene III, where Longaville and his friends are caught by the ladies reading love poems dedicated to each of them. Longaville, overcome by guilt and shame, confesses his love for Maria and begs for forgiveness. This pivotal moment in the play showcases Longaville's growth as a character and his willingness to confront his own weaknesses.
Longaville's transformation also highlights one of the central themes of Love's Labour's Lost: the futility of trying to resist love. Despite their best intentions, the young men cannot escape the power of love, leading to a comedic and romantic resolution.
In conclusion, Longaville is a complex and relatable character in Love's Labour's Lost. His internal conflict between love and duty, as well as his eventual transformation, adds depth to the play and highlights the timeless theme of love's irresistible nature.