Twelfth Night, or What You Will, is a play written by William Shakespeare in the early 17th century. Filled with romance, mistaken identities, and witty wordplay, it is often considered one of Shakespeare’s greatest comedies. The play follows the story of Viola, who, after surviving a shipwreck, disguises herself as a man and enters the service of Duke Orsino. As the plot unfolds, the characters find themselves in hilarious and often heartwrenching situations, leading to some of the most memorable quotes in all of Shakespeare’s works.
One of the most famous quotes from Twelfth Night is “If music be the food of love, play on.” These words, spoken by Duke Orsino at the beginning of the play, convey his longing for the object of his affection, Olivia. The line captures the theme of unrequited love that runs throughout the play and sets the tone for the romantic entanglements that follow.
Another memorable quote from Twelfth Night is “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.” This line, spoken by the character Malvolio, reflects the play’s exploration of social class and the notion of self-identity. It reminds us that greatness can come from various sources and is not solely determined by birth or status.
Twelfth Night is also known for its use of comedic wordplay and puns. One such example is when Sir Toby Belch says, “Dost thou think because thou art virtuous there shall be no more cakes and ale?” This line is both humorous and thought-provoking, highlighting the tension between morality and indulgence, and adding a layer of depth to the comedic elements of the play.
In conclusion, Twelfth Night is a literary masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences with its memorable quotes and timeless themes. The play’s exploration of love, mistaken identity, and social hierarchy make it a must-read for anyone interested in Shakespeare’s works. From the longing words of Duke Orsino to the witty banter between characters, the quotes from Twelfth Night remind us of the enduring brilliance of Shakespeare’s writing.
Overview of Twelfth Night
Twelfth Night is a popular comedy play written by William Shakespeare. It was first performed in 1602 and is believed to have been written around the same time as Hamlet. The play is set in the fictional country of Illyria and tells the story of Viola, a young woman who disguises herself as a man named Cesario after she is shipwrecked on the shores of Illyria.
The main plot of Twelfth Night revolves around love and mistaken identity. Viola, disguised as Cesario, falls in love with Duke Orsino, who is in love with Lady Olivia. However, Olivia falls in love with Viola, thinking that she is a man. This creates a love triangle that leads to confusion and humorous situations throughout the play.
In addition to the love triangle, Twelfth Night also features secondary subplots involving a group of comic characters. These include Sir Toby Belch, Olivia’s uncle, who enjoys drinking and playing pranks, and Malvolio, Olivia’s steward, who is a pompous and self-righteous character.
The title of the play, Twelfth Night, refers to the traditional celebration of the twelfth night after Christmas, known as the Feast of Epiphany. This was a time of revelry and merriment, often marked by role reversals and disguise, which ties in with the themes of the play.
Overall, Twelfth Night is a light-hearted and entertaining play that explores themes of love, mistaken identity, and the folly of human behavior. Its witty dialogue and memorable characters have made it one of Shakespeare’s most beloved and frequently performed comedies.
Why Twelfth Night is considered one of Shakespeare’s masterpieces
Twelfth Night, also known as “What You Will,” is one of William Shakespeare’s most acclaimed plays. It is regarded as a masterpiece for several reasons.
Firstly, Twelfth Night showcases Shakespeare’s mastery of comedy. The play is filled with witty wordplay, comedic situations, and humorous characters that continue to entertain audiences even today. The clever banter between characters like Viola, Sir Toby Belch, and Feste the jester adds a lighthearted and amusing tone to the play.
Secondly, Twelfth Night explores complex themes such as love, identity, and disguise. The play presents multiple layers of mistaken identity, with Viola disguising herself as a man named Cesario and various characters falling in love with the wrong person. Shakespeare intertwines these themes masterfully, creating a rich and thought-provoking narrative.
Additionally, Twelfth Night features memorable and well-developed characters. Viola, the play’s protagonist, stands out as a strong and independent woman who navigates the challenges of her disguise with wit and grace. Other characters like Olivia, Orsino, and Malvolio add depth and complexity to the play, making it a captivating study in human nature.
Finally, Twelfth Night’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes and timeless relevance. The play explores the fluidity of gender roles, the power of love, and the importance of self-discovery, themes that continue to resonate with audiences across different cultures and time periods.
In conclusion, Twelfth Night is considered one of Shakespeare’s masterpieces due to its expertly crafted comedy, exploration of complex themes, well-developed characters, and enduring relevance. It continues to be celebrated and performed as a testament to Shakespeare’s genius and the universal appeal of his works.
“If music be the food of love, play on”
This famous quote is spoken by Duke Orsino in Twelfth Night, one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies. It reflects the theme of unrequited love that runs throughout the play.
Orsino, who is pining for the love of Olivia, suggests that music has the power to increase his love for her. He compares music to food, implying that it has the ability to nourish and sustain love. He then goes on to say, “Play on,” urging the musicians to continue playing in order to further indulge in the melancholy of his unrequited love.
This quote is often interpreted as a commentary on the transformative power of music. It suggests that music can stir up emotions, intensify desire, and even act as a remedy for love’s sorrows. Orsino’s words also reveal his romantic nature and his passionate pursuit of love.
Throughout the play, the theme of love is explored in different ways, with mistaken identities and comedic misunderstandings adding to the confusion. The quote, “If music be the food of love, play on,” sets the tone for the play’s exploration of love, desire, and the lengths people will go to obtain it.
Overall, the quote is a testament to Shakespeare’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotions through his words. It reminds us of the universal power of music to fuel our emotions and deepen our connections with others, even in the face of unrequited love.
“Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them”
One of the most famous lines from Shakespeare’s play Twelfth Night is the quote, “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.”
This quote reflects the recurring theme of identity and self-discovery in the play. It suggests that greatness is not solely determined by birthright, but also by personal effort and the circumstances one finds themselves in.
The line is spoken by the character Malvolio, who is a steward in the household of Olivia, one of the main characters. Malvolio is depicted as a character who believes he is superior to others and desires to rise above his station in life.
In the context of the play, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on social status and the arbitrary nature of greatness. It suggests that one’s birthright or social standing does not necessarily dictate their potential for greatness, but rather it is a combination of individual effort and the opportunities that arise.
The quote also serves as a reminder that greatness can sometimes be imposed upon someone, whether they desire it or not. In the case of Twelfth Night, this is exemplified by the character Viola, who disguises herself as a man and becomes entangled in a web of mistaken identity and romantic pursuits. Despite her original intention to simply survive in a foreign land, Viola ends up achieving greatness through her quick wit, resourcefulness, and ability to navigate complex situations.
This powerful quote from Twelfth Night continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us that greatness can be attained through various means and that our circumstances do not define our potential for success.
“Be not afraid of greatness. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them”
In William Shakespeare’s play “Twelfth Night,” the character Malvolio delivers this powerful line, reminding us that greatness can take many forms and can be achieved by anyone.
The line suggests that one should not be afraid to pursue greatness, as it can come to individuals in different ways. Some people are born with innate qualities that make them great, while others work hard to achieve greatness through their actions and choices. Additionally, there are those who, unexpectedly, have greatness thrust upon them, perhaps due to unforeseen circumstances or opportunities that arise.
This quote speaks to the universal truth that greatness is not limited to a select few but can be attained by anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. It inspires individuals to embrace their potential for greatness and not let fear hold them back from pursuing their dreams and aspirations.
It is a reminder that greatness is not solely determined by external factors such as social status or birthright but can be created through personal growth, determination, and seizing opportunities when they arise. It encourages individuals to have confidence in their abilities and to strive for excellence in whatever they set out to do.
Ultimately, Shakespeare’s words remind us that greatness is within reach for all, and it is up to each individual to embrace their own journey towards achieving greatness.
“Dost thou think, because thou art virtuous, there shall”
In Shakespeare’s renowned play, Twelfth Night, the character Malvolio utters one of the most memorable lines: “Dost thou think, because thou art virtuous, there shall be no more cakes and ale?” This line, spoken by the self-righteous steward, embodies the theme of hypocrisy and the limitations of pursuing virtue alone.
Malvolio, a pompous and sanctimonious character, mistakenly believes that his virtuousness makes him superior to others. He accuses Sir Toby Belch and his companions of indulging in revelry and merriment, questioning their choices because they do not align with his strict moral code.
The quote reflects the irony and humor that Shakespeare often infused in his plays. Malvolio’s self-righteousness backfires as he reveals his own narrow-mindedness and lack of understanding. Shakespeare uses this line to highlight the absurdity of attempting to impose one’s own virtues on others and to caution against the dangers of self-righteousness.
The quote also serves as a reminder that being virtuous does not necessarily lead to a life devoid of pleasure or enjoyment. Shakespeare suggests that virtue should be accompanied by a balanced approach to life, and that it is possible to uphold one’s moral standards while also embracing the joys and pleasures that life has to offer.
Overall, Shakespeare’s line, “Dost thou think, because thou art virtuous, there shall be no more cakes and ale?” serves as a poignant critique of self-righteousness and a celebration of the balance between virtue and enjoyment. It reminds us that true virtue encompasses a broader understanding of life and the ability to embrace both morality and lightheartedness.
“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other”
In Shakespeare’s play, Twelfth Night, this famous quote is spoken by the character Juliet, expressing the idea that a name does not define the true nature of a person or thing. Juliet points out that even if a rose were called by a different name, it would still possess the same beauty and fragrance.
Shakespeare uses this quote to explore the themes of identity and disguise throughout the play. The characters in Twelfth Night often adopt different names and personas, leading to misunderstandings and comedic situations. This quote reminds the audience that names are simply labels, and it is the essence of a person or thing that truly matters.
The quote also highlights Shakespeare’s skill in using language to convey complex ideas. The paradoxical nature of the statement – that a name holds both significance and insignificance – reflects the deep philosophical and psychological depth of his plays.
Overall, this quote serves as a reminder to look beyond superficial labels and judgments, and to instead focus on the true essence of individuals and the world around us.
“I am all the daughters of my father’s house, And all the brothers too”
In Shakespeare’s play, Twelfth Night, Viola utters these words in a soliloquy as she disguises herself as a man and takes on the identity of Cesario. This quote reflects Viola’s determination and adaptability in navigating the challenges she faces. Despite being a woman in a patriarchal society, Viola refuses to be confined by the limitations imposed upon her gender. Instead, she assumes the roles of both daughter and son, demonstrating her ability to embody various identities and defy societal expectations.
Viola’s statement is a testament to her resilience and resourcefulness. By assuming the role of a man, she gains greater freedom and agency, allowing her to navigate the world in a way that would have been impossible otherwise. This quote serves as a reminder that identity is not fixed, but rather, can be fluid and malleable. Viola’s ability to transcend traditional gender roles highlights the complexity of human nature and challenges the notion of rigid gender norms.
Furthermore, Viola’s words also highlight the importance of family and the connection she feels to her loved ones. Despite her disguise, Viola acknowledges her familial ties and takes on the responsibility of representing her entire household. This quote showcases her loyalty and dedication to her family, as she strives to protect and preserve their honor and reputation.
Overall, Viola’s statement “I am all the daughters of my father’s house, And all the brothers too” encapsulates her resilience, adaptability, and loyalty. It underscores the themes of identity, gender, and family that are central to Twelfth Night and resonates with audiences as a powerful expression of self-discovery and self-determination.
“If love be blind, love cannot hit the mark”
In Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, the character Duke Orsino famously says, “If love be blind, love cannot hit the mark.” This quote encapsulates the theme of unrequited love that runs throughout the play. Orsino, who is in love with the Countess Olivia, laments that his love is unreciprocated, suggesting that love is blind and unable to make a successful match.
This line highlights the bittersweet nature of love in the play. While Orsino longs for Olivia’s affection, she is instead drawn to Viola, who has disguised herself as a man named Cesario. The quote suggests that love is not always rational or logical, and that it can lead to heartache when it is not returned.
Orsino’s words also speak to the idea that love is often based on perception rather than reality. He believes that love must be blind in order to be true, as it relies on idealized versions of the beloved rather than their actual flaws and imperfections.
Overall, this quote from Twelfth Night reminds us of the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of love. It serves as a reminder that love does not always hit the mark and can lead to both joy and sorrow, making it a timeless and relatable sentiment.
“This above all: to thine own self be true”
One of the most iconic quotes from Shakespeare’s play Twelfth Night is the famous line, “This above all: to thine own self be true.” These words, spoken by the character Polonius in Hamlet, resonate deeply with audiences as a timeless reminder to stay true to oneself.
In Twelfth Night, this quote takes on a new meaning as characters navigate the complexities of love, identity, and mistaken identities. The play explores themes of self-discovery and the importance of remaining authentic in a world that often tries to deceive or manipulate us.
Within the context of the play, “to thine own self be true” serves as a guiding principle for characters like Viola, who poses as a man in order to navigate the society she finds herself in. Despite the challenges and confusion that arise from her disguise, Viola stays true to her own values and emotions, eventually finding love and happiness.
This quote also serves as a reminder to not conform to societal expectations or compromise our true selves for the approval of others. It encourages us to embrace our individuality and live authentically, even if it means going against the grain or facing obstacles along the way.
Overall, “This above all: to thine own self be true” is a powerful quote that encapsulates the themes of self-discovery and authenticity explored in Twelfth Night. It serves as a reminder to stay true to ourselves and follow our own paths, despite the challenges and pressures we may face.