Twelfth Night

Definition

Twelfth Night is a comedic play written by William Shakespeare, believed to have been composed around 1601-1602, which explores themes of love, identity, and mistaken intentions. This play is significant not just for its rich characterizations and intricate plot twists but also for its reflection of the festive spirit of the Twelfth Night holiday, celebrating the end of the Christmas season. The work showcases Shakespeare's exceptional ability to weave complex relationships and misunderstandings, ultimately leading to a resolution that emphasizes the joy and chaos of love.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Twelfth Night is often considered one of Shakespeare's greatest comedies, blending elements of romance, humor, and social commentary.
2. The character Viola disguises herself as a male named Cesario, creating complex layers of attraction and identity exploration that drive the plot.
3. The play's title refers to the Twelfth Night festival, a time when social norms are upended and revelry occurs, reflecting the play's themes of chaos and celebration.
4. Key themes include unrequited love, gender roles, and the fluidity of identity, as seen through various relationships such as Viola and Orsino or Olivia's affection for Cesario.
5. Twelfth Night has had a lasting impact on theatre and literature, inspiring numerous adaptations in film, music, and stage productions over the centuries.

Review Questions

• How does mistaken identity drive the plot in Twelfth Night and what effect does it have on character relationships?
  • Mistaken identity is central to Twelfth Night's plot, primarily through Viola’s disguise as Cesario. This creates confusion between characters like Orsino, who falls for Cesario thinking he is a man, and Olivia, who falls for Cesario unaware that he is actually Viola. This layer of complexity not only fuels comedic situations but also deepens themes around love and attraction, showcasing how appearances can distort reality.
• Discuss the significance of the holiday setting in Twelfth Night and how it influences the play's events.
  • The setting of Twelfth Night corresponds with the festive celebration that traditionally allows for role reversals and social disorder. This backdrop influences the play by creating an atmosphere where societal norms are challenged—characters engage in romantic pursuits and deceptions that they might not otherwise consider. The festival spirit embodies freedom and chaos, which are reflected in the characters’ actions and the resulting comedic scenarios.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Twelfth Night on contemporary theatre and literature, considering its themes and character archetypes.
  • Twelfth Night has significantly influenced modern theatre and literature due to its exploration of complex themes such as love’s irrationality and gender fluidity. The archetype of cross-dressing characters has paved the way for discussions on identity in contemporary works. Additionally, its comedic structure continues to inspire adaptations that reflect societal issues today while retaining Shakespeare's wit. The play’s celebration of love in all its forms resonates across generations, making it timeless.

Related terms

Mistaken Identity: A common theme in literature where characters are confused for one another, leading to humorous or dramatic situations, prominently featured in Twelfth Night through Viola's disguise as Cesario.

Commedia dell'Arte: An early form of Italian theatrical improvisation characterized by stock characters and situations, influencing the comedic style of Twelfth Night with its playful antics.

Feste: The wise fool character in Twelfth Night who provides commentary on the events and characters throughout the play, embodying the theme of folly and wisdom.