Description
The world is turned upside down in this rollicking comedy, whose title alludes to an English holiday marked by revelry and chaos. In the gender-bending kingdom of Illyria, nothing is as it seems, as men and women disguise their true identities in order to win each other’s love. The royal love triangle includes Duke Orsino, (who loves Olivia), Olivia (who loves Cesario), and Cesario (who is actually Viola dressed as a boy). This intricate love plot creates much confusion. The servants in Olivia’s household contribute to this upheaval as well: the drunkard Uncle Toby and his rowdy friends conspire to play a trick on the uptight Malvolio, who harbors his own crush. As if all of these elements weren’t enough, Viola’s long-lost brother Sebastian appears on the scene in search of his sister. The fact that almost every character is disguised as someone else produces hilarious misunderstandings and awkward interactions. The final project of sorting out everyone’s true identity—and true affections—takes some effort, but Shakespeare’s familial and romantic unions are proof that Twelfth Night is one of his finest comedies.
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Opening Lines (Experimental)
ORSINO, Duke of Illyria.
SEBASTIAN, a young Gentleman, brother to Viola.
ANTONIO, a Sea Captain, friend to Sebastian.
SIR TOBY BELCH, Uncle of Olivia.
SIR ANDREW AGUE-CHEEK.
MALVOLIO, Steward to Olivia.
FABIAN, Servant to Olivia.
CLOWN, Servant to Olivia.
OLIVIA, a rich Countess.
VIOLA, in love ...
Ratings for 'Twelfth Night' by Shakespeare, William
| charlottevalle |  | 2008-10-01 |
Twelfth Night
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Twelfth Night
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