Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, or What You Will is a comedic masterpiece brimming with witty banter, poignant reflections, and lines that have resonated through centuries. While the entire play is a treasure trove of eloquent phrases, some stand out for their beauty, depth, and enduring relevance. This exploration delves into some of the most memorable and impactful quotes from Twelfth Night, examining their context and lasting significance.
What are some of the most famous quotes from Twelfth Night?
This is a question often posed by Shakespeare enthusiasts, and the answer depends somewhat on individual preference. However, several quotes consistently appear in lists of the play's most celebrated lines. These often focus on themes of love, loss, deception, and the complexities of identity, all central to the play's plot. Some strong contenders include Viola's "My master loves her dearly," Orsino's "If music be the food of love, play on," and Feste's numerous witty pronouncements. We'll explore several of these and others in more detail below.
"If music be the food of love, play on" - Orsino
This famous quote, spoken by the lovesick Duke Orsino, is arguably the most recognizable line from Twelfth Night. It beautifully encapsulates the romantic idealization of love, suggesting a passive acceptance of the pain of unrequited affection, as long as the soothing balm of music continues. However, the line’s seemingly simple sentiment belies a deeper complexity. Orsino’s request for music isn’t a genuine attempt to overcome his heartbreak; rather, it's a self-indulgent act of melancholic wallowing. The line's enduring appeal lies in its ambiguity; it can be interpreted both romantically and ironically, reflecting the multifaceted nature of love itself.
"She never told her love, but let concealment, / Like a worm i' the bud, feed on her damask cheek" - Orsino
Here, Orsino describes the supposed pining of Olivia for Cesario (Viola in disguise). While the description is inaccurate regarding Olivia's feelings, the imagery of a "worm i' the bud" feeding on a "damask cheek" is strikingly effective. The metaphor is both delicate and unsettling, portraying the slow, insidious effect of unspoken love, consuming beauty from within. This passage beautifully illustrates the internal struggles and hidden emotions often associated with romantic longing.
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them" - Malvolio
This quote, delivered by the pompous steward Malvolio, holds a surprising amount of philosophical weight. While often used ironically within the context of the play (Malvolio believes he is achieving greatness through Olivia's supposed affection), the line resonates with a wider truth about the various paths to prominence. It speaks to the different ways individuals attain influential positions: through birthright, through their own efforts, or through unforeseen circumstances. The line’s enduring popularity comes from its universal applicability and its ability to encapsulate the complexities of social status and personal ambition.
What makes Twelfth Night's language so eloquent?
The eloquence of Twelfth Night's language stems from several factors: Shakespeare's masterful use of metaphor and imagery creates vivid and memorable phrases. The play’s sophisticated wordplay and puns add a layer of wit and intellectual stimulation. The skillful integration of verse and prose allows for both lyrical beauty and conversational realism. Furthermore, the language’s ability to convey both comedic and serious tones enhances its overall impact. The characters' varied social positions and personalities are reflected in the language they use, contributing to the play's richness and complexity.
How does Twelfth Night's language contribute to its themes?
The eloquent language of Twelfth Night directly supports its exploration of key themes. The romantic language used by Orsino initially establishes the idealized, almost artificial nature of his love. The witty exchanges between Feste, the clown, and other characters highlight the absurdity and fleeting nature of life's experiences. The more straightforward and often less lyrical language employed by characters like Sir Toby Belch contributes to the comedic elements of the play. Overall, the variety and style of the language underscore the play’s multifaceted exploration of love, identity, and the nature of reality versus illusion.
In conclusion, Twelfth Night offers a wealth of eloquent lines that continue to capture the imagination and resonate with audiences centuries later. The play's enduring appeal lies not only in its engaging plot but also in the beauty, wit, and emotional depth of Shakespeare’s unforgettable language.
