Trickery in "Twelfth Night"

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how different kinds of trickery, deception, and mistakings exist in "Twelfth Night" and how audiences respond to and enjoy these in different ways and for various reasons. Specifically, the paper compares the trickery and deception played on Sir Andrew Aguecheek with that played on Malvolio, noting that the motivations behind the tricks employed on these two characters are radically different.

From the Paper:

"Toby's motivation toward Andrew in Act I, scene III is selfish. He flatters Andrew's ego and gives him false hope regarding his prospects with Olivia by claiming "she'll none o' the count" (1.3.97), and that "there's life in [the suit], man" (1.3.99-100). Parenthetically, it will also become apparent as the play progresses that Andrew's courting of Olivia is another ridiculous aspect of his character; it should be clear to all that he does not stand a chance. Indeed, Shakespeare pays much more attention to the Orsino/Olivia/Viola love triangle and doesn't give any serious attention to Andrew's love interests. However, we have no reason to suspect that Sir Toby wishes Andrew any serious harm, and simply wants the spirit of festivity, which is a theme of the play, to continue. For that he requires a drinking companion, and preferably one with money to pay the way. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Shakespeare, William. William Shakespeare: The Complete Works. USA: Gramercy Books., 1975.

More papers on Trickery in "Twelfth Night":

• Comparison Essay # 86527 : "Disguises in "Twelfth Night" and "King Lear"
• Analytical Essay # 135350 : "Disguise in "Twelfth Night" by William Shakespeare"
• Essay # 45624 : "Revenge on Malvolio in "Twelfth Night"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: