Twelfth Night By William Shakespeare

Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night brings to light many different characters, along with their unique character traits. In exploring the relationships, formed by these characters, their various polar traits shine through.

Viola enters the scene as an outsider shipwrecked and left with few belongings, no job, nor surviving family to her knowledge. Olivia, in contrast, is a noblewoman and countess of Illyria. She is afforded many luxuries including servants and an aristocratic status which makes her want for naught and places her in the position of constantly being center of attention for her many male admirers. Viola is able to make her way in the world through sheer determination and wit, in disguising herself as male to work as Orsino’s servant, while Olivia uses her titled position to acquire what she desires.
He makes his feelings known straightaway in his intention to persuade Olivia to be his wife and wastes no time in sending Viola, disguised as Cecario, to make certain this occurs. It is through Olivia’s eyes we can see the polar differences between Viola/Cecario and Orsino. Cecario is soft spoken, well mannered, non-threatening, and easy for Olivia to talk to, whereas Orsino is aggressive, unrelenting, and boisterous in his pursuit of Olivia. Cecario’s kind and unassuming nature are what wins Olivia over in the end.

Another interesting character is Malvolio. His “by the book” attitude in governing his every move is in direct opposition to Maria, Sir Andrew, Sir Toby, and Feste within the household. These individuals are fun-loving and have enthusiasm for life and appear to enjoy each other’s antics. This contrast sets Malvolio up as the villain within the story and eventually leads the other characters to turn on him in a vengeful plot to undermine his status within the