Twelfth Night

Daniel Maclise (1806-1870) - Scene from 'Twelfth Night' ('Malvolio and the Countess') - N00423 - National Gallery

Scene from Twelfth Night - Francis Wheatley

Shakespeare's Heroines - Olivia

Sir Toby Belch coming to the assistance of Sir Andrew Aguecheek (Houghton c.1854)

George Clint (1770-1854) - Malvolio and Sir Toby (from William Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night', Act II, Scene iii) - 485055 - National Trust

Twelfth Night F1

Twelfth Night, or What You Will, is a comedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written around 1601–1602 as a Twelfth Night entertainment for the close of the Christmas season. The play centers on the twins Viola and Sebastian, who are separated in a shipwreck. Viola (who is disguised as a boy) falls in love with Duke Orsino, who in turn is in love with the Countess Olivia. Upon meeting Viola, Countess Olivia falls in love with her thinking she is a man. The play expands on the themes of mistaken identities, love, and the interplay of gender roles.

Plot

The play opens with Duke Orsino trying to woo Countess Olivia, who is mourning her brother's recent death and refuses to see anyone. Meanwhile, Viola is shipwrecked on the coast of Illyria and believes her brother Sebastian to be dead. She decides to disguise herself as a man, taking on the name Cesario, and enters the service of Duke Orsino. Orsino grows fond of Cesario and sends him to court Olivia for him, but Olivia falls in love with Cesario.

In a parallel plot, Olivia's steward, Malvolio, is the victim of a cruel trick played by Sir Toby Belch, Olivia's uncle; Sir Andrew Aguecheek; and Maria, Olivia's maid. They convince Malvolio that Olivia is in love with him through a forged letter, leading to his public humiliation.

Sebastian, who is very much alive, arrives in Illyria, leading to a series of mistaken identities and eventual reunions. Viola's true identity is revealed, and she marries Duke Orsino, while Sebastian marries Olivia.

Themes

Twelfth Night explores themes of love, identity, and the complexities of gender roles. The fluidity of gender and the idea of love as an overpowering force are central to the narrative. The play also delves into the folly of ambition and the human desire for companionship and belonging.

Characters

• Viola/Cesario
• Duke Orsino
• Countess Olivia
• Sebastian
• Malvolio
• Sir Toby Belch
• Sir Andrew Aguecheek
• Maria
• Feste, the clown

Production History

Twelfth Night has been a popular choice for production since the Renaissance. Its rich characters, intricate plot, and the themes of love and identity have resonated with audiences for centuries. The play has seen various adaptations, including operas, films, and musicals, highlighting its enduring appeal.

Legacy

Twelfth Night remains one of Shakespeare's most beloved and frequently performed plays. Its exploration of gender roles and identity, as well as its comedic elements, have made it a favorite among audiences and scholars alike. The play's influence extends beyond the theatre, inspiring various works of literature, music, and film.

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