Feste's role in this Illyrian comedy is significant because Illyria is a country permeated with the spirit of the Feast of Fools, where identities are confused, uncivil rule is applauded, and no harm is done. In Illyria, the fool is not so much a critic of his environment as he is a ringleader. Feste plays the role of a humble clown employed by Olivia's father, as well as the licensed fool of their household. This is evident in Olivia's statement that Feste is "an allowed fool," (Act 1, Scene 5, Line 93) meaning he is a "licensed," privileged critic to speak the truth of the people around him. It is also evident in Curio's statement to Orsino that Olivia's fathe

Maria, Olivia's companion is another person who seems enthusiastic in playing pranks on other people. In the play, she plays the unsuspecting role of a behind the scene fool that gives ideas to Feste, Sir Andrew Aguecheek, and Sir Toby Belch to assist her in her plans. In two incidents, she remains behind the curtains while either Feste or Sir Toby Belch and Sir Andrew Aguecheek carry out her plans. Part of the humor that lies in this comedy is that Maria's pranks are harsh and cruel, using love and power (the status of Olivia) to attack Malvolio, steward of Olivia, who is "...sick of self love" (Act 1, Scene 5, Line 90). For this, Malvolio's greed for power leads him to be locked up in a dark cell and is accused of being mad. Maria also prepares Feste to disguise as Sir Topaz. This is seen in the quote: "Nay, I prithee put on this gown and this beard; make him believe thou are Sir Topas the curate; do it quickly. I'll call Sir Toby the whilst." (Act 4, Scene 2, Lines 1-3). Combined with other fools, Maria helps make this a hilariously funny comedy. Lastly, Sir Toby Belch is another fool in the play. His role is helping "on the game of make-believe." He always convinces and encourages the rich Sir Andrew Aguecheek that he has a chance of winning Lady Olivia's love. He is similar to Feste, except he plays the role of a knight and is Olivia's kinsman. His role is similar to a fool because he depicts the many pranks of a fool. For example, in Act 2, Sc

Some common words found in the essay are:
Lady Olivia's, Toby Belch, Satan Act, Andrew Aguecheek, Feast Fools, Sir Topaz, Night Feste, Sir Toby, , Maria Olivia's, sir toby, toby belch, sir toby belch, sir topaz, sir andrew aguecheek, act 4, olivia's father, sir andrew, feste sir, scene 2, 4 scene, act 4 scene, 4 scene 2, andrew aguecheek, scene 1 line,
Approximate Word count = 983
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)