Malvolio

Definition

Malvolio is a character from Shakespeare's play 'Twelfth Night,' known for his puritanical demeanor and self-righteous attitude. He serves as the steward to Olivia and becomes the target of a comedic plot involving disguise and mistaken identity, which ultimately leads to his humiliation. This character embodies themes of social ambition and the folly of self-deception, often contrasting with the playful and chaotic world around him.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Malvolio's name is derived from the Latin 'malvolio,' meaning 'ill-will,' which reflects his negative disposition and disdain for revelry.
2. He becomes the victim of a practical joke orchestrated by Sir Toby Belch and others, who use a forged letter to manipulate him into believing that Olivia loves him.
3. His aspirations to rise above his social station highlight themes of ambition and class distinction, making him a foil to characters like Sir Toby.
4. Malvolio’s experience in captivity showcases the darker side of comedy, revealing how easily one can be brought low by the whims of others.
5. By the end of the play, Malvolio vows revenge on those who wronged him, emphasizing the conflict between his self-importance and the chaotic nature of love and identity in 'Twelfth Night.'

Review Questions

• How does Malvolio's character serve as a foil to other characters in 'Twelfth Night,' particularly in terms of social ambition?
  • Malvolio's strict adherence to social decorum contrasts sharply with the carefree attitudes of characters like Sir Toby Belch and Sir Andrew Aguecheek. His aspirations to marry Olivia and elevate his status reveal his ambitious nature, setting him apart from others who embrace chaos and revelry. This juxtaposition highlights the theme of class distinction, as Malvolio’s downfall stems from his overreaching ambitions, while those around him find joy in love and freedom from societal constraints.
• Discuss how disguise and mistaken identity influence the events surrounding Malvolio in 'Twelfth Night.'
  • Disguise plays a crucial role in the manipulation of Malvolio's character throughout 'Twelfth Night.' The forged letter that leads him to believe Olivia loves him is a prime example of how deception creates chaos. This mistaken identity not only leads to Malvolio's public humiliation but also serves as a catalyst for broader themes of love, desire, and social ambition. The events surrounding him illustrate how easily perception can be altered through disguise, ultimately contributing to both comedic moments and poignant reflections on identity.
• Analyze Malvolio's reaction to his treatment by other characters and what this reveals about human nature in the context of 'Twelfth Night.'
  • Malvolio’s reaction to being tricked and humiliated reveals complex aspects of human nature, particularly pride and ambition. Initially, he believes he deserves Olivia's affection due to his high moral standards, demonstrating how self-deception can lead one to misinterpret reality. His subsequent rage and desire for revenge highlight the fragility of ego when faced with ridicule. Ultimately, his character serves as a reminder of how social status and personal ambition can lead individuals down paths of isolation and bitterness when they fail to recognize the folly within themselves.

Related terms

Disguise: A fundamental device in literature where characters alter their appearance or identity, often leading to misunderstandings and comedic situations.

Mistaken Identity: A common theme in literature where a character is misidentified or misunderstood, resulting in confusion and often humorous outcomes.

Feste:

The fool or jester in 'Twelfth Night,' who uses wit and wordplay to comment on the actions of other characters, including Malvolio.