Twelfth Night(Illustrated) E-Book

William Shakespeare

• Herausgeber: Micheal Smith
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

•  20 Stunning Illustrations: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Illyria with illustrations that capture the essence of the characters and the play's whimsical atmosphere.
• Summary and Characters List: Easily navigate the intricate web of love, disguise, and mistaken identity with a comprehensive summary and a list of key characters at your fingertips.
• Author Biography: Delve into the life and legacy of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare, gaining insights into the mind behind this literary masterpiece.

"Twelfth Night" is a tale of love, laughter, and the unpredictable twists of fate. Viola's disguise as Cesario, the Duke's passionate courtship of Olivia, and the uproarious antics of Sir Toby Belch and his companions will keep you entertained from the first page to the last.
Whether you're a dedicated Shakespearean scholar or a casual reader looking for an immersive and beautifully illustrated edition of this classic comedy, this book is a must-have for your collection.
Don't miss your chance to own this exquisite edition of "Twelfth Night" by William Shakespeare. Immerse yourself in the world of Illyria and the timeless themes of love, identity, and the delightful absurdity of the human heart. Add it to your Kindle library today!

 

Leseprobe

TWELFTH NIGHT

BY

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

ABOUT SHAKESPEARE

The Enigmatic Birth

In the dimly lit streets of Stratford-upon-Avon, on a crisp April night in 1564, the world welcomed a poet, playwright, and philosopher who would forever change the landscape of literature. Little did anyone know that this child, christened William Shakespeare, would become the unparalleled maestro of the English language.

The School of Stars

William's early years were marked by curiosity, a trait that would later fuel his boundless creativity. His education at the King's New School exposed him to classical literature and ignited a fascination with ancient myths, a fascination that would weave its way into his works.

The Globe-trotting Poet

As a young man, Shakespeare embarked on a journey of self-discovery that took him from the bustling streets of London to the vibrant markets of Marrakech. His voyages, shrouded in secrecy, enriched his perspective on culture, religion, and human nature, laying the foundation for his diverse and nuanced characters.

The Courtly Intrigue

Within the hallowed halls of Queen Elizabeth I's court, Shakespeare found himself entangled in a web of power and politics. His wit and charm won him favor among nobles, but it was his razor-sharp observations of courtly life that birthed timeless tales of ambition, betrayal, and treachery.

The Secret Society

Rumors persist of Shakespeare's involvement with a clandestine group of thinkers and artists known as "The Illuminated Quill." Allegedly, they met under the cover of night, discussing esoteric ideas that would shape the playwright's most enigmatic and metaphysical works.

The Manuscript Mysteries

Some claim that the Bard was not the sole author of his plays, citing hidden manuscripts and collaborative efforts. This chapter explores the enduring controversy surrounding the Shakespearean authorship debate, keeping the mystery alive.

The Cosmic Connection

Shakespeare's works are riddled with references to celestial bodies and cosmic forces. Was he, in fact, a harbinger of cosmic wisdom, tapping into the universal truths that connect all living beings? This chapter delves into the mystical aspects of his writing.

The Immortal Legacy

Even after his passing in 1616, Shakespeare's influence has remained as potent as ever. His words have transcended time and language, captivating hearts and minds across the globe. This chapter celebrates his enduring legacy in literature, theater, and beyond.

Epilogue: The Eternal Playwright

In the end, William Shakespeare remains an enigma, a figure whose life and works continue to inspire awe and intrigue. His journey was not just one of ink and quill but a voyage through the realms of the human soul and the mysteries of the universe—a true bard of infinite worlds.

SUMMARY

"Twelfth Night" by William Shakespeare is a timeless tale of love, mistaken identities, and the intoxicating chaos of desire. Set in the enchanting world of Illyria, this comedic masterpiece takes readers on a whirlwind journey where shipwrecks, disguises, and mischievous pranks blur the lines between reality and illusion. At its heart, the story follows the resilient Viola, who, after a shipwreck, dons a male disguise and finds herself caught in a love triangle she never anticipated. With witty wordplay, unforgettable characters, and a jubilant spirit, "Twelfth Night" is a delightful exploration of the complexities of human passion, all set against a backdrop of revelry and revelers, proving that love, in all its forms, is a joyous and unpredictable adventure. Shakespeare's lyrical genius and comedic brilliance shine brightly in this enduring classic, making "Twelfth Night" a captivating and entertaining journey into the whimsical realm of love's folly.

CHARACTERS LIST

Viola - The central character of the play, Viola is a young woman who, after surviving a shipwreck, disguises herself as Cesario, a page boy, to serve Duke Orsino.

Duke Orsino - The Duke of Illyria, he is a lovesick nobleman who pines for the Lady Olivia throughout the play. He employs Viola (disguised as Cesario) as his messenger of love.

Lady Olivia - A wealthy and mourning noblewoman in Illyria, Olivia rejects the advances of Duke Orsino. However, she becomes enamored with Viola (disguised as Cesario).

Sebastian - Viola's twin brother, who is believed to have drowned in the shipwreck. He unexpectedly arrives in Illyria, causing confusion due to his resemblance to Viola.

Sir Toby Belch - Olivia's boisterous and often drunk uncle. He revels in mischief and schemes with Sir Andrew Aguecheek to pursue Olivia's affection.

Maria - Olivia's clever and mischievous maid, who helps orchestrate pranks and schemes throughout the play.

Sir Andrew Aguecheek - A foolish and wealthy suitor of Olivia. He is easily manipulated by Sir Toby and Maria.

Feste - The witty and clever fool in Olivia's household. Feste's wordplay and songs add depth to the play's themes.

Malvolio - Olivia's steward, who is pompous and prudish. He becomes the target of a prank devised by Maria, Sir Toby, and others, leading to his humiliation.

Antonio - A loyal sea captain who rescues Sebastian after the shipwreck and cares for him like a brother. He mistakenly confronts Viola, thinking she is Sebastian.

Fabian - A minor character who is part of the group that orchestrates pranks on Malvolio.

Valentine and Curio - Gentlemen in Duke Orsino's service, who play minor roles in the story.

These characters, with their diverse personalities and desires, contribute to the comedic and romantic complexities of "Twelfth Night," creating a rich and entertaining narrative.

Contents

Characters of the Play

ACT 1

Scene 1

Scene 2

Scene 3

Scene 4

Scene 5

ACT 2

Scene 1

Scene 2

Scene 3

Scene 4

Scene 5

ACT 3

Scene 1

Scene 2

Scene 3

Scene 4

ACT 4

Scene 1

Scene 2

Scene 3

ACT 5

Scene 1

Characters of the Play

Orsino, Duke of Illyria.Sebastian, brother to Viola.Antonio, a sea captain, friend to Sebastian.A Sea Captain, friend to Viola.Valentine and Curio, gentlemen attending on the Duke.Sir Toby Belch, uncle to Olivia.Sir Andrew Aguecheek.Malvolio, steward to Olivia.Fabian and Feste, a Clown, servants to Olivia.

Olivia.Viola.Maria, Olivia's woman.

Lords, Priests, Sailors, Officers, Musicians, and other Attendants.

Scene: A city in Illyria, and the sea-coast near it.

ACT 1

Scene 1

DUKE ORSINO's palace.

Enter DUKE ORSINO, CURIO, and other Lords; Musicians attending

DUKE ORSINO

If music be the food of love, play on;Give me excess of it, that, surfeiting,The appetite may sicken, and so die.That strain again! it had a dying fall:O, it came o'er my ear like the sweet sound,That breathes upon a bank of violets,Stealing and giving odour! Enough; no more:'Tis not so sweet now as it was before.O spirit of love! how quick and fresh art thou,That, notwithstanding thy capacityReceiveth as the sea, nought enters there,Of what validity and pitch soe'er,But falls into abatement and low price,Even in a minute: so full of shapes is fancyThat it alone is high fantastical.

CURIO

Will you go hunt, my lord?

DUKE ORSINO

What, Curio?

CURIO

The hart.

DUKE ORSINO

Why, so I do, the noblest that I have:O, when mine eyes did see Olivia first,Methought she purged the air of pestilence!That instant was I turn'd into a hart;And my desires, like fell and cruel hounds,E'er since pursue me.

Enter VALENTINE

How now! what news from her?

VALENTINE

So please my lord, I might not be admitted;But from her handmaid do return this answer:The element itself, till seven years' heat,Shall not behold her face at ample view;But, like a cloistress, she will veiled walkAnd water once a day her chamber roundWith eye-offending brine: all this to seasonA brother's dead love, which she would keep freshAnd lasting in her sad remembrance.

DUKE ORSINO

O, she that hath a heart of that fine frameTo pay this debt of love but to a brother,How will she love, when the rich golden shaftHath kill'd the flock of all affections elseThat live in her; when liver, brain and heart,These sovereign thrones, are all supplied, and fill'dHer sweet perfections with one self king!Away before me to sweet beds of flowers:Love-thoughts lie rich when canopied with bowers.

Exeunt

Scene 2

The sea-coast.

Enter VIOLA, a Captain, and Sailors

VIOLA

What country, friends, is this?

Captain

This is Illyria, lady.

VIOLA

And what should I do in Illyria?My brother he is in Elysium.Perchance he is not drown'd: what think you, sailors?

Captain

It is perchance that you yourself were saved.

VIOLA

O my poor brother! and so perchance may he be.

Captain

True, madam: and, to comfort you with chance,Assure yourself, after our ship did split,When you and those poor number saved with youHung on our driving boat, I saw your brother,Most provident in peril, bind himself,Courage and hope both teaching him the practise,To a strong mast that lived upon the sea;Where, like Arion on the dolphin's back,I saw him hold acquaintance with the wavesSo long as I could see.

VIOLA

For saying so, there's gold:Mine own escape unfoldeth to my hope,Whereto thy speech serves for authority,The like of him. Know'st thou this country?

Captain

Ay, madam, well; for I was bred and bornNot three hours' travel from this very place.

VIOLA

Who governs here?

Captain

A noble duke, in nature as in name.

VIOLA

What is the name?

Captain

Orsino.

VIOLA

Orsino! I have heard my father name him:He was a bachelor then.

Captain