Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, or What You Will, is a riotous comedy of mistaken identities, unrequited love, and clever disguises. While the plot twists and turns, several key quotes encapsulate the play's themes and offer insights into its vibrant characters. This guide will decode some of the most memorable lines, exploring their meaning and significance within the larger context of the play.
What are the main themes of Twelfth Night?
Twelfth Night explores several intertwined themes, including:
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Love and its complexities: The play is a whirlwind of romantic entanglements, showcasing the chaotic nature of love, its capacity for both joy and pain, and the often-blurred lines between genuine affection and infatuation. The characters' pursuit of love often leads to humorous misunderstandings and unexpected outcomes.
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Identity and disguise: Disguise plays a central role, with Viola's adoption of Cesario's persona driving much of the plot. This exploration of identity raises questions about authenticity, self-perception, and the performative aspects of social interaction. The characters' shifting identities highlight the fluidity of self and the impact of external perceptions.
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Folly and foolishness: The play is filled with moments of absurdity and comedic misunderstandings, often stemming from the characters' impulsive actions and flawed judgments. Sir Andrew Aguecheek and Sir Toby Belch, in particular, embody this element of folly, providing much of the play's humor.
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Music and festivity: Music and celebration are recurring motifs, reflecting the play's celebratory atmosphere and emphasizing the importance of joy and merriment. The festive setting of Illyria and the frequent references to music create a sense of lightheartedness and underscore the overall comedic tone.
"If music be the food of love, play on." – Orsino
This famous quote, spoken by the Duke Orsino in Act I, sets a melancholic yet romantic tone for the play. Orsino, consumed by his unrequited love for Olivia, believes music can soothe his aching heart. The line is more than just a request for music; it reflects the power of art to express and perhaps even alleviate emotional turmoil. It also foreshadows the role music will play throughout the play, both in expressing the characters' emotions and in contributing to the overall festive atmosphere.
"She never told her love, but let concealment, / Like a worm i' the bud, feed on her damask cheek." – Orsino (describing Olivia)
This quote reveals Orsino's idealized vision of Olivia. He observes her apparent sadness, attributing it to secret, unrequited love. The evocative imagery of "a worm i' the bud" suggests a slow, destructive force eating away at her beauty, mirroring the consuming nature of his own unrequited love. It highlights the romantic idealization that often clouds judgment in matters of the heart.
"I am not that I am." – Viola
Viola's poignant declaration in disguise as Cesario reflects the central theme of identity in the play. This seemingly paradoxical statement highlights the duality of her existence. She is both Viola, the shipwrecked countess, and Cesario, the young man serving Orsino. The line suggests the complexities of self-presentation and the potential for deception, even when motivated by necessity and survival.
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." – Malvolio
This quote from Malvolio, often misinterpreted as a reflection of his own ambition, actually captures a broader truth about social hierarchy and fate. While initially appearing boastful, the line underscores the unpredictable nature of fortune and how one's status can shift dramatically, unexpectedly propelled by circumstance. Malvolio, in his delusion, ironically becomes a victim of greatness thrust upon him – a cruel joke played by the other characters.
"Curiosity killed the cat." – Maria
This familiar proverb, used by Maria to warn Malvolio about his inquisitiveness, highlights the dangers of unwarranted curiosity and meddling. Malvolio's obsessive prying into the letter leads to his downfall, a comedic illustration of the proverb's cautionary message.
What is the significance of the title, Twelfth Night?
The title "Twelfth Night" refers to the Epiphany, the twelfth day of Christmas, a time of celebration and revelry. This festive atmosphere mirrors the comedic tone of the play and highlights the themes of disguise and mistaken identity, often associated with the traditions and revelry of this period.
How does the play end?
The play culminates in a joyous resolution, with mistaken identities revealed, love found, and order restored. The chaos and confusion of the preceding acts give way to a satisfying conclusion, underscoring the triumph of love and happiness over misunderstanding and turmoil. The final act emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and the power of reconciliation. The play ends with a celebratory atmosphere, emphasizing the themes of festivity and the power of resolution.
