Twelfth Night, or What You Will Lies and Deceit Quotes Page 1

As Viola determines to disguise her identity by cross-dressing as a boy servant ("Cesario"), she considers the sea captain's trustworthiness. This passage is interesting for the way Viola describes the way some people can seem "fair" in their outward behavior and demeanor while concealing, like a "beauteous wall," an inner nature that may be "pollut[ed]." Viola's speech sets the tone for a play intent on thinking about whether or not what's outside matches what's on the inside.

Olivia's use of the term "stealth" (the action of theft, plunder, or underhanded deception) is interesting because it suggests that falling in love makes one a kind of victim. In this way, Olivia suggests that "Cesario" has robbed her of something (her heart, her well being, etc.). The audience is also aware that Viola's deceptive disguise plays an important role in Olivia's physical attraction to "Cesario's" "tongue, face, limbs," etc., which gives new meaning to the concept of "Cesario's" "stealth," or underhandedness.

Here, we learn that Sebastian has kept his name and personal background hidden from his new friend, Antonio. It's not exactly clear why Sebastian would lie to the man who saved his life by calling himself "Roderigo." Sebastian's language in this passage suggests that he thinks of his identity as a very personal and intimate secret that is to be guarded and protected from those who would "extort" it from him. But why? Is it a defense mechanism that allows Sebastian to keep his fears about his lost twin a secret? Something else? What do you think?