Instant Access To 100,000+ Essays!

Continuing a tradition that has stood for centuries, William Shakespeare is in this day and age considered one of the greatest authors of all time. With works ranging from romantic comedies to tragedies, Shakespeare uses hidden meanings along with the whimsical setting of the Renaissance to enthrall his readers in his works. Drawing its title from one of the most delightful Renaissance holidays, the Twelfth Night is another name for the last day of Christmas celebration. For one single day all social roles are overturned, even those of the nobles, in order to relieve stress safely. (Shakespeare’s Characters, 461) Much in light of the topsy-turvy holiday from which this play draws its name, Twelfth Night demonstrates exactly how Shakespeare uses a variety of traits in his characters to make themes more prominent throughout the entire play. Although it falls under the classification of a romantic comedy, little humor is present when the plot begins to unfold. The reader first comes upon the character of Duke Orsino, who is pining for the love of a woman named Olivia. Orsino’s courtly love is typical of the Renaissance, as the object of his affections does not return his love. (Shakespeare’s Characters, 470) As Shakes