From Conflict to Identity: Main Issues Explored in US Literary Education - Sykalo Eugen 2023

What is the role of manipulation and deception in William Shakespeare's “Twelfth Night”?

In William Shakespeare's comedic masterpiece, "Twelfth Night," the themes of manipulation and deception take center stage, orchestrating a delightful symphony of mistaken identities, love triangles, and mischievous plots. Set in the realm of Illyria, the play explores the whimsical and often treacherous nature of human desires and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their goals. Through a tapestry of disguises, trickery, and elaborate schemes, Shakespeare weaves a tale that explores the fragility of truth and the power dynamics that arise from manipulation.

Manipulation, as a central theme, permeates every corner of "Twelfth Night." Characters employ various strategies to control and influence the actions and emotions of others, often blurring the lines between reality and illusion. The play introduces us to the cunning and charismatic figure of Viola, who disguises herself as a man named Cesario to navigate the unfamiliar terrain of Illyria. Viola's deception allows her to enter into the inner circles of power and intrigue, effectively manipulating those around her.

One of the most notable instances of manipulation in the play is the character of Malvolio, the pompous and self-righteous steward of Olivia's household. Through a cleverly crafted letter, Maria, Sir Toby Belch, and Sir Andrew Aguecheek exploit Malvolio's vanity, deceiving him into believing that Olivia is in love with him. This leads Malvolio to behave foolishly and absurdly, falling victim to the manipulation of those who wish to see him humiliated. Shakespeare highlights the dangers of unchecked manipulation, exposing the vulnerability of individuals who are driven by their own desires and ambitions.

Deception, too, plays a crucial role in "Twelfth Night." Characters engage in a delightful game of disguise and mistaken identity, blurring the boundaries of gender, appearance, and social status. Viola's disguise as Cesario leads to a series of misunderstandings, as both Olivia and Orsino fall in love with her, unaware of her true identity. This web of deception leads to comic misunderstandings and emotional turmoil, ultimately resolving in a revelation of truth and a reckoning of the consequences of deception.

Shakespeare also explores the consequences of manipulation and deception on the characters' emotional well-being. The play presents us with a range of characters who are victims of manipulation, including Malvolio, who suffers humiliation and a shattered sense of self, and Olivia, who is deceived by Viola's disguise and struggles to reconcile her feelings for Cesario. The emotional toll of manipulation is evident in the play, highlighting the fragility of human emotions and the potential for harm when truth is concealed or distorted.

Yet, "Twelfth Night" also showcases the transformative power of manipulation and deception. Through the web of disguises and intrigues, characters discover new aspects of themselves and experience personal growth. Viola, in her guise as Cesario, becomes a confidante to Orsino and develops a deep connection with him. This journey of self-discovery and transformation suggests that manipulation and deception can serve as catalysts for personal and emotional development, allowing characters to explore different facets of their identity.

Moreover, the play raises profound questions about the nature of truth and the role of illusion in our lives. Shakespeare challenges the audience to question the distinction between reality and appearance, highlighting the subjective nature of truth. The characters' experiences of manipulation and deception blur the lines between what is genuine and what is fabricated, prompting us to contemplate the fluidity of identity and the complexities of human interactions.

Manipulation and deception play a pivotal role in William Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night." Through a tapestry of disguises, mistaken identities, and intricate schemes, the play explores the intricacies of human desires, the fragility of truth, and the transformative power of manipulation. Shakespeare invites us to reflect on the consequences of these actions, both in terms of emotional turmoil and personal growth. "Twelfth Night" stands as a testament to the timeless allure of manipulation and deception, reminding us of their profound impact on the human experience and the intricate dance between reality and illusion.