William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, or What You Will, a riotous comedy of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements, is a treasure trove of quotable lines. Its witty banter, poignant reflections, and insightful observations on love, folly, and human nature continue to resonate with audiences centuries later. This exploration delves into some of the most memorable quotes from Twelfth Night, examining their context and enduring relevance. We'll also unpack some frequently asked questions surrounding the play and its famous lines.
"If music be the food of love, play on."
This iconic line, spoken by Orsino in Act 1, Scene 1, immediately establishes the melancholic and romantic tone of the play. Orsino, consumed by his unrequited love for Olivia, believes music can soothe his aching heart. The quote's enduring popularity stems from its elegant simplicity and its universal appeal; the connection between music and emotion transcends time and culture. It speaks to the power of art to express and even alleviate emotional pain. The line's ambiguity also adds to its richness: is Orsino truly seeking solace, or is he using music to prolong his self-indulgent melancholy?
"She never told her love, but let concealment, / Like a worm i' the bud, feed on her damask cheek."
This passage, also from Orsino's first soliloquy, beautifully describes the destructive power of unspoken love. Olivia's secret affection for Cesario (Viola in disguise) is subtly revealed through this evocative metaphor. The image of a worm destroying a beautiful bud perfectly captures the internal turmoil and self-consuming nature of unrequited love. The quote's enduring appeal lies in its poetic imagery and its relatable portrayal of the pain of unconfessed feelings.
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them."
This famous quote, delivered by Malvolio in Act II, Scene 5, is arguably the most widely known line from the play. It speaks to the different paths to achieving greatness, highlighting both ambition and the unexpected turns of fate. Malvolio, convinced he is about to achieve greatness through his supposed courtship of Olivia, ironically demonstrates the absurdity of his own self-deception. The line's enduring legacy lies in its concise articulation of the varied routes to success and prominence, a truth applicable to all aspects of life.
What is the significance of the title "Twelfth Night"?
The title "Twelfth Night" refers to the twelfth night after Christmas, also known as Epiphany. This festive period, traditionally associated with revelry and disguise, mirrors the play's chaotic and often farcical atmosphere. The element of disguise and mistaken identity is central to the plot, and the festive setting provides a suitable backdrop for this comedic exploration of love and deception.
What are the main themes of Twelfth Night?
Twelfth Night explores several intertwined themes, including:
- Love and its complexities: The play presents a multifaceted view of love, ranging from unrequited passion to deceptive games and genuine affection.
- Identity and disguise: The use of disguise and mistaken identity is crucial to the plot's comedic effect and highlights the fluidity of identity.
- Appearance versus reality: The play questions the validity of appearances, exposing the deceptive nature of outward appearances.
- Folly and madness: Characters like Malvolio provide comedic relief while also highlighting the potential for folly and self-deception.
What are some other memorable quotes from Twelfth Night?
Many other lines from Twelfth Night stand out for their wit and wisdom. For instance, "I am not the man I am" from Viola speaks to the transformative power of disguise and deception. Sir Toby Belch's boisterous pronouncements, like "Dost thou think, because thou art virtuous, there shall be no more cakes and ale?", demonstrate the play's celebration of life and good times.
Conclusion
Twelfth Night is a masterpiece of comedic genius, filled with memorable lines that continue to capture the imagination. These quotes, with their wit, wisdom, and profound insights, remain relevant and resonate with audiences today because they address universal truths about human nature and the complexities of love, identity, and human folly. Shakespeare’s ability to weave humor and pathos together so seamlessly ensures the enduring appeal of his work. The play's enduring popularity is a testament to the power of Shakespeare's language and his insightful portrayal of the human condition.