'Twelfth Night' by William Shakespeare is a classic romantic comedy that explores mistaken identities, misplaced affections, and cross-dressing. The play follows the story of shipwrecked siblings, love-struck Dukes and Duchesses, silly servants, and characters embroiled in a web of misdirected love and confusion. Through witty wordplay, absurdity, and joyous endings, Shakespeare weaves a tale of disguises, mistaken identities, and the complexities of love and desire. The play is known for its light-hearted tone, comedic elements, and the interplay of romance and humor.

Critically acclaimed as one of Shakespeare's most complex and intriguing plays, 'Twelfth Night' delves into themes of gender roles, sexual politics, and the art of deception. The play's production and reception are highlighted, emphasizing the role of the spectator in unraveling the layers of comedy, romance, and mistaken identities. With characters like Viola, who hides her true identity and emotions, the play offers a glimpse into the intricacies of human relationships and the lengths one goes to for love and acceptance.

Characters:

The characters are diverse, ranging from the resourceful Viola to the foolish Malvolio, contributing to a rich comedic narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style blends lyrical poetry with humor, showcasing Shakespeare's skillful use of language and wordplay.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot involves shipwrecked twins Viola and Sebastian, mistaken identities, and comedic misunderstandings, culminating in a resolution of romantic entanglements.

Setting:

The setting in Illyria creates a whimsical atmosphere that complements the play's themes of love and mistaken identity.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally brisk, though some subplots briefly interrupt the momentum.

He hath indeed, almost natural: for besides that he's a fool, he's a great quarreller: and but that he hath the gift of a coward to allay the gust he hath in quarrelling, 'tis thought among the pruden...

Notes:

Twelfth Night was written between 1601 and 1602, during the Christmas season.

The play features themes of mistaken identities and cross-dressing, particularly through the character Viola who disguises herself as a man named Cesario.

Shakespeare's play is known for its romantic entanglements and comedic conflicts, particularly involving a love triangle between Viola, Orsino, and Olivia.

Feste, the clown of the play, provides witty commentary and highlights the folly of the other characters.

Malvolio, a steward in Olivia's household, becomes a target of cruel humor, which has sparked discussions about the treatment of his character.

The play illustrates various attitudes toward love, gender, and disguise, raising questions about identity and societal norms.

Sir Toby Belch and Sir Andrew Aguecheek, two comedic characters, are involved in a plot to humiliate Malvolio, adding a layer of darker humor to the story.

The setting of Illyria, where the play takes place, is presented as a fantastical world separate from the normal social order.

Many adaptations of Scott's work, including film and stage, have emphasized its comedic elements, while also exploring its deeper themes.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content that may be distressing includes themes of mental health, bullying, and deception, particularly concerning Malvolio's harsh treatment.

Has Romance?

The play contains significant romantic elements as characters engage in complex love pursuits and mistaken affections.

From The Publisher:

Shakespeare's gentle melancholy, enlivened by a comic sub-plot of considerable accomplishment, has long made Twelfth Night a favourite with Shakespearian audiences.

Separated from her twin brother Sebastian after a shipwreck, Viola disguises herself as a boy to serve the Duke of Illyria. Wooing a countess on his behalf, she is stunned to find herself the object of his beloved's affections. With the arrival of Viola's brother, and a trick played upon Malvolio, the countess's steward, confusion reigns in this romantic comedy of mistaken identity.

Ratings (17)

Incredible (4)
Loved It (4)
Liked It (5)
It Was OK (4)

Reader Stats (29):

Read It (22)
Want To Read (4)
Not Interested (3)

1 comment(s)

Bekahpaige

It Was OK

4 months

Funny romance/comedy

What can you read after
Twelfth Night?

See the list (100 books)

About the Author:

William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, in 1564. The date of his birth is not known but is traditionally 23 April, St George's Day. Aged 18, he married a Stratford farmer's daughter, Anne Hathaway. They had three children. Around 1585 William joined an acting troupe on tour in Stratford from London, and thereafter spent much of his life in the capital. A member of the leading theatre group in London, the Chamberlain's Men, which built the Globe Theatre and frequently performed in front of Queen Elizabeth I, Shakespeare wrote 36 plays and much poetry besides. He died in 1616.

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Activity

Recommendations

My Stuff

Account

More