Resume of Twelfth Night

A detailed Summary of Resume of Twelfth Night


Twelfth Night was the festival held on the night of the 5th January (12th night after Christmas), and the night before the Epiphany, the time the Three Wise Men visited Jesus. This gives rise to its French name, "La Nuit Des Rois".

In medieval and Tudor times, this festival was by tradition very rowdy (it is possible that 12th Night was derived from the Roman festival of "Saturnalia", held in December, which was renowned for its revelry). One of the activities was a masquerade, in which everyone wore masks to conceal their identity, therefore also concealing their rank in society. Another activity was mock "King-for-a-Day", in which a member of each household was chosen by lottery to be "King". It is consequently quite likely that a child or servant could be chosen, and they would preside over their elders or masters respectively. A director would be specially appointed for the festival. In England he wa


The riotous behaviour is reflected in the late-night drinking sessions of Sir Toby, Sir Andrew, Maria and Feste.

The "Master of Unreason" would of delighted in the most unlikely, and unlikely attractions between many characters in the play. Orsino, Malvolio and Sir Andrew for Olivia, Olivia for Cesario and Sebastian, Maria for Sir Toby and vice-versa, Viola for Orsino and maybe also Antonio for Sebastien. In addition there is a madman, Feste, who is very clever but plays the fool professionally, while there is also a man, Malvolio, who is made to look the fool.

The masquerade is represented by the impersonations that take place in the play. Viola impersonates Cesario and she also, involuntarily, impersonates her brother, Sebastian, and vice-versa. Feste impersonates the priest, Sir Topas, while Maria impersonates Olivia via her handwriting. Antonio denies his identity to try and escape arrest

Some common words found in the essay are:
Des Rois, William Shakespeare, Sir Toby, Lord Misrule, Master Unreason, Malvolio Cesario, Twelfth Night, Topas Maria, Sir Andrew, Antonio Sebastien, sir toby, sir andrew, twelfth night, characters play, mock king-for-a-day, maria sir, cesario sir, 12th night, servants masters, master unreason,

Approximate Word count = 613
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

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