Cesario

Definition

Cesario is a character in Shakespeare's play 'Twelfth Night' who is the disguised identity of Viola, a shipwrecked noblewoman. This persona allows Viola to navigate a world where gender roles are rigidly defined, showcasing themes of disguise and mistaken identity, while also creating comedic situations through her interactions with other characters. The use of Cesario highlights the fluidity of gender and the complexity of human relationships in a festive and chaotic environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Viola adopts the name Cesario to disguise herself as a man after being shipwrecked, enabling her to serve Duke Orsino and navigate the challenges of Illyria.
2. The character Cesario blurs the lines between male and female identities, raising questions about gender roles and attraction in the play.
3. Cesario’s interactions with Olivia lead to confusion and comic moments, particularly when Olivia falls in love with Cesario, unaware that he is actually Viola.
4. The name 'Cesario' itself can be interpreted as a play on words, suggesting themes of 'case' or 'cover,' highlighting the nature of disguise in the play.
5. The use of Cesario ultimately leads to the resolution of multiple plotlines, showcasing how disguise can complicate relationships yet also lead to truth and reconciliation.

Review Questions

• How does Cesario's disguise influence the relationships between characters in 'Twelfth Night'?
  • Cesario's disguise as Viola significantly impacts her relationships with other characters, particularly Duke Orsino and Olivia. Orsino sees Cesario as a confidant and messenger, unaware that he is speaking to the woman he loves. Meanwhile, Olivia becomes infatuated with Cesario, creating a love triangle that drives much of the play's comedic tension. This complex web of attraction demonstrates how disguise not only creates confusion but also reveals deeper truths about desire and identity.
• In what ways does the character Cesario contribute to the exploration of gender roles in 'Twelfth Night'?
  • Cesario serves as a vehicle for exploring the fluidity of gender roles in 'Twelfth Night.' By presenting herself as a young man, Viola challenges traditional expectations of femininity and masculinity. This allows her to navigate a patriarchal society more freely while exposing the arbitrary nature of these roles. The interactions that ensue question societal norms regarding love, attraction, and identity, ultimately suggesting that these constructs are more complex than they appear.
• Evaluate how the use of Cesario contributes to the themes of revelry and carnivalesque elements within 'Twelfth Night'.
  • The character of Cesario embodies the spirit of revelry and carnivalesque elements present in 'Twelfth Night'. Her disguise leads to humorous situations filled with mistaken identities and misunderstandings, capturing the chaotic energy characteristic of carnival. This blurring of social boundaries allows for playful interactions among characters, emphasizing joy and celebration while also addressing deeper themes such as love and identity. Ultimately, Cesario's role reinforces how laughter and chaos can reveal profound truths about human nature.

Related terms

Disguise: A technique used by characters to hide their true identity, often leading to misunderstandings and comedic scenarios.

Mistaken Identity: A common theme in literature where characters are confused for someone else, resulting in humorous or dramatic situations.

Carnivalesque: A literary concept that celebrates chaos and subversion of social norms, often through humor and revelry.