Scribd
Upload
16 views

Lit. (1)

Uploaded by

Teni
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
16 views

Lit. (1)

Uploaded by

Teni
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

Deception stands as a cornerstone in William Shakespeare's 'Twelfth

Night,' subtly woven into the fabric of the narrative, driving the plot
through intricately orchestrated incidents. Among these, two
significant episodes of deception emerge, primarily involving Viola's
disguise as Cesario and the manipulation of Malvolio through a
forged letter. These instances shape the characters' actions and
emotions, illustrating the complexities of mistaken identities and the
consequences of deceit within the comedic framework of the play.

Viola's decision to disguise herself as Cesario lays the groundwork for


a web of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements. As she
navigates Illyria after surviving a shipwreck, Viola assumes the
persona of a male page, Cesario, stating, "Conceal me what I am, and
be my aid / For such disguise as haply shall become / The form of my
intent" (Act 1, Scene 2). This deceptive guise propels Viola into Duke
Orsino's service while secretly falling in love with him. However, her
disguised identity becomes a catalyst for confusion and emotional
complexity as Olivia, unaware of Viola's true self, falls for Cesario.

Viola's disguise significantly impacts her emotional state, which is


torn between her genuine feelings for Orsino and the constraints of
her disguise. Her deception inadvertently affects the emotions and
relationships of Orsino and Olivia, complicating their pursuit of love.
This complex interplay of mistaken identities serves as a driving force
behind the comedic yet emotionally charged elements within the play,
shedding light on the limitations and vulnerabilities imposed by
societal norms.

Conversely, the second incident of deception revolves around


Malvolio, Olivia's steward, who becomes the victim of manipulation
through a forged letter. Maria, Olivia's maid, crafts a letter in Olivia's
handwriting, deceiving Malvolio into believing that Olivia harbors
romantic feelings for him. This deception leads Malvolio to act
foolishly, following the letter's instructions by donning yellow
stockings and behaving in a manner contrary to his usual seriousness.

The impact of this manipulation on Malvolio is profound and


negative. Blinded by the false hope instilled by the forged letter,
Malvolio becomes the subject of ridicule and humiliation as his
behavior, guided by deceit, is revealed to Olivia and others. This
instance highlights the repercussions of deception, exposing
vulnerabilities and arrogance, ultimately leading to Malvolio's
downfall.

Shakespeare employs dramatic irony as a powerful dramatic


technique associated with the theme of deception in 'Twelfth Night.'
Throughout Viola's disguise as Cesario, the audience is privy to her
true identity, while the other characters remain unaware. This
dramatic irony heightens the audience's engagement, creating
anticipation for the eventual revelation and emphasizing the
complexities arising from deception in the play's unfolding events.

In conclusion, the theme of deception in 'Twelfth Night' is intricately


woven into the plot through Viola's disguise as Cesario and the
manipulation of Malvolio. These instances profoundly impact the
characters involved, shaping their actions and emotions.
Shakespeare's use of dramatic irony emphasizes the consequences and
complexities of deceit, portraying the interplay between mistaken
identities, human relationships, and societal norms within the comedic
setting of the play.

You might also like