Sticking with my theme of loving the way Shakespeare introduces characters, lines 30-43 in Act 2, Scene 1 stuck out to me. In Antonio's 4th line of the play, he says " If you will not murder me for my love, let me be your servant." Using the opposite of subtlety, Shakespeare quickly establishes both the motivation and objectives of Antonio. There are so many ways to play/read these lines, and Shakespeare, yet again, does a great job of introducing a character.
The parts of these scenes I enjoyed the most were the occasional gems that Sir Andrew has sprinkled about the text. Some favorites include line 33 in scene 3: "Ay, ay. I care not for good life." and line 164 in the same scene: "I was adored once too." Andrew, by now, has established his role as pure comic relief, and these lines and others showcase just how ridiculous his character is. It is also interesting to note that despite the fact that Andrew is the financial support for the two, Sir Toby holds all of the status, and even asks Andrew for more money with no hesitation.
“But come what may, I do adore thee so That danger does seem sport, and I will go”
This last line in Scene 1 made me question the nature of Antonio’s relationship with Sebastian. If he would be willing to put himself in danger just to be with Sebastian, he really does adore him so. Are they just good friends? Or could Antonio be in love with Sebastian?
2.2.26-27
“Disguise, I see thou art a wickedness Wherein the pregnant enemy does much.”
This line confused me the first time I read it, but once I thought about it, it really fascinated me. Shakespeare comments on how disguise, or lying, essentially, is a sadistic thing. Also, this shows that Viola is already beginning to regret her decision to become Cesario. The entire monologue is a great comment on the love triangle between her, Orsino, and Olivia, and how it is bound to create more problems in the future.
This time around, lines 21-22 in act 2 scene 1, stood out for me because, after reading these, I immediately began foreshadowing the up coming events in the play. These lines read as; " A lady sir, though is was said she much resembled me, and yet of many accounted beautiful." While these aren't the most poetic lines I have ever read, they seem to be foreshadowing a possible twist in the play's plot. In my opinion, the twin's resemblance is going to be used later on in the story as a way to resolve the love crisis between Olivia, Viola and Orsino. After reading these lines I foreshadowed that since Sebastian is identical to Viola, he will become the lover of Olivia and live together happy ever after. This would then "free" Viola, allowing her to court Orsino and then marry him as well.
Similar to A.J's comment about Antonio, I found lines 42-43 in act 2 to be my second favorite lines. This is because it seems that Antonio is extremely fond of Sebastian. In fact he likes Sebastian so much that he would put himself into danger in order to be with him. This urges me to think whether or not Antonio loves Sebastian. This is so striking because, during Shakespeare's era, homosexuality was not accepted. For him to put this possible subtle reference to homosexuality would take a lot of courage because it could really backfire on him.
I immediately had the same thought as Ross and A.J. when Antonio and Sebastian were introduced. in Sebastian's first lines on page 25, Act 2 he says to Antonio: "I Shall crave your leave that I may bear my evils alone. It were a bad recompense for your love, to lay any of them on you" My first though was: "Is Antonio in love with Sebastian?" at first it seems like he could just be referring to friendship, but Shakespeare keeps building up the tension and making it seem like more and more, until it seems definite that Antonio feels more for Sebastian than friendship, even if it isn't clearly stated.
Another part I like about this scene, is when Sebastian is describing his sister. Act 2 Scene 1 lines 22-23 Sebastian: A lady sir, though it was said she much resembled me, was yet of many accounted beautiful. Just with that simple phrase, Shakespeare is laying out a whole new conflict: the fact that they look alike. Sebastian then goes on to say that he is going to Orsino's court, where (though he doesn't know it) his sister is, dressed like a man. It makes it clear that something is going to happen when he shows up looking exactly like Cesario, I like how he's building up tension and excitement in this scene
After finishing scene one of act two, I had to re-read the dialogue between Sebastian and Antonio. I was not quite sure why this scene was placed in this section, so I (obviously) had to go back and find out its significance. The scene did not appear to be humorous, so the two characters interactions were not meant for comedic relief (like the knuckleheads). However, after reading the words "murder" and "love" in the same sentence, I took special notice. Antonio is adamant about going with Sebastian to Orsino’s court, because he says that he would die of grief if he left him: "If you will not murder me for my love, let me be your servant." This line sounded very similar to something Orsino would say to Olivia or Viola would say to Orsino. After coming to that conclusion, I realized that this scene was meant to set up a romantic relationship between the two men. Although it is not yet clear why Shakespeare created this relationship, one could speculate that it is either simply a set up for a further comedic moment or a significant dramatic element to the story.
2.3.77-111
I really enjoy the scenes where Sir Toby, Sir Andrew, and Maria all gang up on Malvolio. Although Malvolio had more status in Olivia's court than the knuckleheads and Maria, they still disrespect him. Malvolio-"Is there no respect of place, persons, nor time in you?" Sir Toby-"We did keep time, sir, in our catches. Sneck up." It is also very interesting how Malvolio, a man of great authority, chooses not to throw them out of the house.
Going off of kyle's point, There is an interesting power dynamic between Malvolio, who possesses more authority and power, and Sir Toby and company. I think that because of Malvolio not taking action, he becomes more vulnerable and susceptible to pranks and tricks. This also leaves him at a powerless state, not being able to enforce any authority.
Act 2 Scene 2 lines 16-40 Viola's monologue This monologue is significant and interesting for its many reasons. One it sets up the problem. "For she did speak in starts, distractedly.She loves me,sure;the cunning of her passion." Viola through thinking out the situation finds out why Olivia left the ring. But whats interesting and concerning for me was the progression of which Viola found out that Olivia was in love with her. In my opinion a longer process of thought would have been more realistic and would have created a tension building situation for the audience and the character her/himself. I guess what I'm saying is that from the viewpoint of a person who doesn't know what the play is about,the "climatic" problem came as a shock.
I agree with many of the previous posts about the love connection between Antonio and Sebastian.
The first thing that jumped out at me in this section, however, was the interaction between Viola and Malvolio, because it reminded me so strongly of her relationship with Valentine. For example, Malvolio says in 2.2.13-14, "If it be worth stooping for, there it lies in your eye; or if not, be it his that finds it". It seems that no matter where Viola goes she breeds jealousy because of her way with the royals. I also think it is an interesting commentary on the social hierarchy of the times, because it seems like all of the servants are desperate for their masters' love. It could be simply because they want power and higher status, but to me it seems to be an almost dog-like affection. I.e. 'lick the hand that feeds you', so to speak. This is curious, because I would have assumed that there would be at least a slight resentfulness for the power that they are subject to.
Another interesting line is 2.3.106. Here, Toby tells Feste to 'rub your chain with crumbs', which the book interprets as reminding him that he is only a servant. This is interesting, because by this point Toby has established himself as comic relief and not one to worry about matters such as rank or power, but judge people by their wit and drinking ability. However, this line is a not-so-subtle reminder that even he is servant to the roles of the social hierarchy and feels some sort of need to assert his dominance. Perhaps this is because Feste is just as witty (if not more so) as Toby, so he feels the need to put him down?
Eric Slamovich I enjoyed reading lines 77-82 in Act 2 Scene 3. Finally Shakespeare places an authoritative figure to attempt to control and end the knucklehead madness that Sir Toby and Sir Andrew are taking part in. When Malvolio says, "do ye make an ale-house of my lady's house, that ye squeak out your coziers' catches without an mitigation or remorse of voice", catches my attention because although Malvolio is of a lower status or rank than Sir Toby and Sir Andrew; he is still able to instruct them on how they should act in Olivia's residence. Also these lines are significant because this is the first dominant figure so far that has some say and influence over other men (Sir Toby, Sir Andrew).
My second favorite part came in lines 5-8 in Act 2 Scene 3 because once again Sir Toby's stupidity and "knuckleheadness" amuses me. When Sir Toby says, "To be up after midnight, and to go to bed then, is early; so that to go to bed after midnight is to go to bed betimes"; is another great example of Shakespeare's love for emplacing repetition in his writings. Sir Toby says that to go to bed after midnight is early, however, to go to bed after midnight is also betimes (early). Why does Sir Toby have to repeat the same thing twice? Even though Sir Toby is under the influence of alcohol I do not think it was necessary for Shakespeare to confuse the writer by having a sentence saying the same exact subject twice.
Like Ross, I was really drawn to Antonio's introduction in the lines "If you will not murder me for my love, let me be your servant". This play intrigues me with the way it has such love between genders and general gender confusion. I think it is very interesting.
My other favorite part of these three scenes was when Sebastian said the words "My stars shine darkly over me" In Scene 1 line 3. I think this is a really pretty way of saying that he is unlucky. His wording is compelling to me because normally something that shines is not dark. It is a bit ironic and perhaps a foreshadowing of an eventual shining moment for Sebastian.
I love the way Shakespeare introduces people as Ross said. In the very beginning lines 9-20 shows how shakespeare is so talented at bringing in a character. He finds a way to even show the relationship between Olivia and Sebastian by there tone and the way they speak. Both of them are elegant in their tone and he does a very good job of displaying them as different people, but making it easy for you to see the similarities. The way that Shakespeare can make the first line of the scene one of the most important lines throughout the whole book is fascinating.
My other favorite part came in scene 3 on line 17 when Sir Andrew says, "By my troth, the fool has an excellent breast". I really liked this line because i thought it was hilarious in imagining him really drunk and just singing his guts out while thinking that he was talented. I just laughed hard when I read that because I could see it happening and had to laugh about it.
Like many other people, I enjoyed the relationship introduced between Sebastian and Antonio. (Especially 2.1.29 through the rest of the scene.) I think Shakespeare is introducing another unexpected love thread. I was surprised by how formal and well spoken Sebastian is; it is a definite contrast to many of the other males in the play.
Though they are not necessarily my favorite parts, I did think it was funny how often Shakespeare was able to summarize what was going on in characters' speech in these three scenes. I found Viola's lines to be especially amusing (2.2.33-35) as she spells out the whole love-mishap setup just in case an audience member was horribly confused. Feste's singing (2.3.34-39) also speaks of various lovers' paths crossing.
I loved the return of the knuckleheads in scene three. They continue to be hilarious, with Andrew's comment "Ay, Ay I care not for good life!" and Feste's "I shall never begin if I hold my peace." I thought that they were a much needed break after the seriousness of Viola's predicament and Antonio being creepy.
My love did not stop when Malvolio entered, because I love the words he uses in his lines, for example in his first "gabble like tinkers". Toby and Feste's drunken song added more awesomeness and Toby's insult "Dost thou think that because thou art virtuous there shall be no more cakes and ale?" was the perfect way to take Malvolio down a notch (if, indeed this is possible). I really like the relationship Malvolio has with these characters, mostly for the hilarity of insults they throw at him.
I really like the parts of the scenes with Sir Toby and company, especially all Sir Andrew's lines. There hilariously over the top. In Act 2, scene 3 lines, after Sir Toby says "Excellant! I smell a device", Sir Andrew says "I have't in my nose too". Sir Andrew is just trying to copy Sir Toby and feel included in the plot, but it's just so ridiculous it almost seems witty.
After looking over some other people's comments about Malvolio and Sir Toby and Sir Andrew and Sebastian and Antonio, I started thinking about status and the different reasons why some characters hold more power than others. The dynamics of a relationship isn't just based on who has the higher social status, but also on how the character's feel about each other and the intelligence of the character. If one character is in love with or dumber than another character, they give up a lot of power to that other character. It's interesting that Shakespeare puts more importance on these internal things, love and wit, rather than social rank. A good example is Sir Andrew who is a gentleman and very wealth, but has a lot less power than Sir Toby, this drunk hanger-on, and even Maria. Their wit and intelligence allows them a higher status, because they're smart enough to get what want. Whereas Sir Andrew can't really think for himself.
I have always loved Viola's "ring monologue." It is one of the most important parts of the play (as well as one of the most overdone monologues in auditions). The last rhyming couplet of the monologue (and the scene) is one of the best that Shakespeare ever wrote: "O time, thou must untangle this, not I: It is too hard a knot for me t'untie." The use of both not and knot is such a breathtaking literary device.
Act 2 Scene 3 Lines 1-10:
I love the opening of this scene. As usual, Toby and Andrew are drunk, but I think this conversation is one of their more amusing ones. When I read it I actually found myself trying to make sense of their logic: some of it actually works which is surprising. I just find their fascination with time and sleep amusing and then Toby's discussion of the four elements come out of the blue. Shakespeare sure knows how to write beautiful, witty, and drunken prose.
In Act 2 Scene 1 I was really struck by Antonio's devotion to a sister he seems to hardly know, and his mourning,
"She is drowned already, sir, with salt water, though I seem to drown her remembrance again with more."
I also find it interesting that even in Shakespeare's time there was a known strong connection between twins. However, it can't be too strong if he thinks that his sister Viola is dead when she is actually alive and well.
Also, Viola's monologue at the end of scene two presented an argument that both modern men and women still have. She is contemplating the return of the ring that she never even gave to Olivia, and at one time curses her disguise because it will ultimately hurt Olivia, but also cherishes it because it allows her to be closer to Orsino. Bros before hoes.
This line stuck out to me because of how different Sebastian's relationship with Antonio is compared to Orsino and his servants. Orsino just wants to be attended to and admired by his servants, but Sebastian seems to even respect Antonio when he says "O good Antonio, forgive me your trouble," apologizing for feeling bad. I think this treatment makes Antonio all the more willing to serve Sebastian, almost as if they are friends and equals. Also, I agree with those that suggested the possibility of romantic tension between these two characters.
Act 2 Scene 2 lines 16-40 (Viola's sililoquey)
I really loved Viola's speech here after Malvolio throws the rng on the ground and leaves. Viola realizes from the small event of the ring that Olivia loves her/Cesario. I thought it was interesting how she began to feel bad for disguising herself and falsely leading everyone, especially Olivia, on. She also asks herself, "How will this fadge?" which I liked because she is relating to the audience here, since we technically don't know yet either. I think this passage shows how perceptive Viola is about everything that is happening around her and realizes that she has got herself in a situation that she has no idea how to fix.
What I thought interesting was when Malvolio returned the ring to Viola in scene two. More than that, though, I was impressed with how Shakespeare had Viola narrate the entire play in one paragraph on page 29. She acutely describes the love triangle, yet she pointedly leaves out any mention of Sebastian. This sets up the scene for Sebastian's arrival in Ileria, when the comedy really gets going and the miscommunications are hilarious. Shakespeare even then tells the slower members of the audience what to expect and sets the stage for the next acts.
Another scene that spoke to me was from lines 77-89. During Malvolio's monolague, his character is deeply expanded upon and the sentiments of the audience (who probably have to put up with other's like this in real life) are automatically disposed against Malvolio. This allows Shakespeare to make fun of Malvoili without having Malvolio appear a victim. If Malvoilo appeared an innocent victim, it would not be so funny as if the audience wanted him to be punished.
19 comments:
Sticking with my theme of loving the way Shakespeare introduces characters, lines 30-43 in Act 2, Scene 1 stuck out to me. In Antonio's 4th line of the play, he says " If you will not murder me for my love, let me be your servant." Using the opposite of subtlety, Shakespeare quickly establishes both the motivation and objectives of Antonio. There are so many ways to play/read these lines, and Shakespeare, yet again, does a great job of introducing a character.
The parts of these scenes I enjoyed the most were the occasional gems that Sir Andrew has sprinkled about the text. Some favorites include line 33 in scene 3: "Ay, ay. I care not for good life." and line 164 in the same scene: "I was adored once too." Andrew, by now, has established his role as pure comic relief, and these lines and others showcase just how ridiculous his character is. It is also interesting to note that despite the fact that Andrew is the financial support for the two, Sir Toby holds all of the status, and even asks Andrew for more money with no hesitation.
2.1.42-43
“But come what may, I do adore thee so
That danger does seem sport, and I will go”
This last line in Scene 1 made me question the nature of Antonio’s relationship with Sebastian. If he would be willing to put himself in danger just to be with Sebastian, he really does adore him so. Are they just good friends? Or could Antonio be in love with Sebastian?
2.2.26-27
“Disguise, I see thou art a wickedness
Wherein the pregnant enemy does much.”
This line confused me the first time I read it, but once I thought about it, it really fascinated me. Shakespeare comments on how disguise, or lying, essentially, is a sadistic thing. Also, this shows that Viola is already beginning to regret her decision to become Cesario. The entire monologue is a great comment on the love triangle between her, Orsino, and Olivia, and how it is bound to create more problems in the future.
This time around, lines 21-22 in act 2 scene 1, stood out for me because, after reading these, I immediately began foreshadowing the up coming events in the play. These lines read as; " A lady sir, though is was said she much resembled me, and yet of many accounted beautiful." While these aren't the most poetic lines I have ever read, they seem to be foreshadowing a possible twist in the play's plot. In my opinion, the twin's resemblance is going to be used later on in the story as a way to resolve the love crisis between Olivia, Viola and Orsino. After reading these lines I foreshadowed that since Sebastian is identical to Viola, he will become the lover of Olivia and live together happy ever after. This would then "free" Viola, allowing her to court Orsino and then marry him as well.
Similar to A.J's comment about Antonio, I found lines 42-43 in act 2 to be my second favorite lines. This is because it seems that Antonio is extremely fond of Sebastian. In fact he likes Sebastian so much that he would put himself into danger in order to be with him. This urges me to think whether or not Antonio loves Sebastian. This is so striking because, during Shakespeare's era, homosexuality was not accepted. For him to put this possible subtle reference to homosexuality would take a lot of courage because it could really backfire on him.
I immediately had the same thought as Ross and A.J. when Antonio and Sebastian were introduced.
in Sebastian's first lines on page 25, Act 2 he says to Antonio:
"I Shall crave your leave that I may bear my evils alone. It were a bad recompense for your love, to lay any of them on you"
My first though was: "Is Antonio in love with Sebastian?" at first it seems like he could just be referring to friendship, but Shakespeare keeps building up the tension and making it seem like more and more, until it seems definite that Antonio feels more for Sebastian than friendship, even if it isn't clearly stated.
Another part I like about this scene, is when Sebastian is describing his sister.
Act 2 Scene 1 lines 22-23
Sebastian: A lady sir, though it was said she much resembled me, was yet of many accounted beautiful.
Just with that simple phrase, Shakespeare is laying out a whole new conflict: the fact that they look alike. Sebastian then goes on to say that he is going to Orsino's court, where (though he doesn't know it) his sister is, dressed like a man. It makes it clear that something is going to happen when he shows up looking exactly like Cesario, I like how he's building up tension and excitement in this scene
(by the way)
I was in the middle of writing mine when Bo posted his so I didn't see it until after.
sorry Bo =[
2.1.31-32
After finishing scene one of act two, I had to re-read the dialogue between Sebastian and Antonio. I was not quite sure why this scene was placed in this section, so I (obviously) had to go back and find out its significance. The scene did not appear to be humorous, so the two characters interactions were not meant for comedic relief (like the knuckleheads). However, after reading the words "murder" and "love" in the same sentence, I took special notice. Antonio is adamant about going with Sebastian to Orsino’s court, because he says that he would die of grief if he left him: "If you will not murder me for my love, let me be your servant." This line sounded very similar to something Orsino would say to Olivia or Viola would say to Orsino. After coming to that conclusion, I realized that this scene was meant to set up a romantic relationship between the two men. Although it is not yet clear why Shakespeare created this relationship, one could speculate that it is either simply a set up for a further comedic moment or a significant dramatic element to the story.
2.3.77-111
I really enjoy the scenes where Sir Toby, Sir Andrew, and Maria all gang up on Malvolio. Although Malvolio had more status in Olivia's court than the knuckleheads and Maria, they still disrespect him. Malvolio-"Is there no respect of place, persons, nor time in you?" Sir Toby-"We did keep time, sir, in our catches. Sneck up." It is also very interesting how Malvolio, a man of great authority, chooses not to throw them out of the house.
Act 2 Scene 3 from when Malvolio enters.
Going off of kyle's point, There is an interesting power dynamic between Malvolio, who possesses more authority and power, and Sir Toby and company. I think that because of Malvolio not taking action, he becomes more vulnerable and susceptible to pranks and tricks. This also leaves him at a powerless state, not being able to enforce any authority.
Act 2 Scene 2 lines 16-40 Viola's monologue
This monologue is significant and interesting for its many reasons. One it sets up the problem. "For she did speak in starts, distractedly.She loves me,sure;the cunning of her passion." Viola through thinking out the situation finds out why Olivia left the ring. But whats interesting and concerning for me was the progression of which Viola found out that Olivia was in love with her. In my opinion a longer process of thought would have been more realistic and would have created a tension building situation for the audience and the character her/himself. I guess what I'm saying is that from the viewpoint of a person who doesn't know what the play is about,the "climatic" problem came as a shock.
I agree with many of the previous posts about the love connection between Antonio and Sebastian.
The first thing that jumped out at me in this section, however, was the interaction between Viola and Malvolio, because it reminded me so strongly of her relationship with Valentine. For example, Malvolio says in 2.2.13-14, "If it be worth stooping for, there it lies in your eye; or if not, be it his that finds it". It seems that no matter where Viola goes she breeds jealousy because of her way with the royals. I also think it is an interesting commentary on the social hierarchy of the times, because it seems like all of the servants are desperate for their masters' love. It could be simply because they want power and higher status, but to me it seems to be an almost dog-like affection. I.e. 'lick the hand that feeds you', so to speak. This is curious, because I would have assumed that there would be at least a slight resentfulness for the power that they are subject to.
Another interesting line is 2.3.106. Here, Toby tells Feste to 'rub your chain with crumbs', which the book interprets as reminding him that he is only a servant. This is interesting, because by this point Toby has established himself as comic relief and not one to worry about matters such as rank or power, but judge people by their wit and drinking ability. However, this line is a not-so-subtle reminder that even he is servant to the roles of the social hierarchy and feels some sort of need to assert his dominance. Perhaps this is because Feste is just as witty (if not more so) as Toby, so he feels the need to put him down?
Eric Slamovich
I enjoyed reading lines 77-82 in Act 2 Scene 3. Finally Shakespeare places an authoritative figure to attempt to control and end the knucklehead madness that Sir Toby and Sir Andrew are taking part in. When Malvolio says, "do ye make an ale-house of my lady's house, that ye squeak out your coziers' catches without an mitigation or remorse of voice", catches my attention because although Malvolio is of a lower status or rank than Sir Toby and Sir Andrew; he is still able to instruct them on how they should act in Olivia's residence. Also these lines are significant because this is the first dominant figure so far that has some say and influence over other men (Sir Toby, Sir Andrew).
My second favorite part came in lines 5-8 in Act 2 Scene 3 because once again Sir Toby's stupidity and "knuckleheadness" amuses me. When Sir Toby says, "To be up after midnight, and to go to bed then, is early; so that to go to bed after midnight is to go to bed betimes"; is another great example of Shakespeare's love for emplacing repetition in his writings. Sir Toby says that to go to bed after midnight is early, however, to go to bed after midnight is also betimes (early). Why does Sir Toby have to repeat the same thing twice? Even though Sir Toby is under the influence of alcohol I do not think it was necessary for Shakespeare to confuse the writer by having a sentence saying the same exact subject twice.
Like Ross, I was really drawn to Antonio's introduction in the lines "If you will not murder me for my love, let me be your servant". This play intrigues me with the way it has such love between genders and general gender confusion. I think it is very interesting.
My other favorite part of these three scenes was when Sebastian said the words "My stars shine darkly over me" In Scene 1 line 3. I think this is a really pretty way of saying that he is unlucky. His wording is compelling to me because normally something that shines is not dark. It is a bit ironic and perhaps a foreshadowing of an eventual shining moment for Sebastian.
I love the way Shakespeare introduces people as Ross said. In the very beginning lines 9-20 shows how shakespeare is so talented at bringing in a character. He finds a way to even show the relationship between Olivia and Sebastian by there tone and the way they speak. Both of them are elegant in their tone and he does a very good job of displaying them as different people, but making it easy for you to see the similarities. The way that Shakespeare can make the first line of the scene one of the most important lines throughout the whole book is fascinating.
My other favorite part came in scene 3 on line 17 when Sir Andrew says, "By my troth, the fool has an excellent breast". I really liked this line because i thought it was hilarious in imagining him really drunk and just singing his guts out while thinking that he was talented. I just laughed hard when I read that because I could see it happening and had to laugh about it.
Like many other people, I enjoyed the relationship introduced between Sebastian and Antonio. (Especially 2.1.29 through the rest of the scene.) I think Shakespeare is introducing another unexpected love thread. I was surprised by how formal and well spoken Sebastian is; it is a definite contrast to many of the other males in the play.
Though they are not necessarily my favorite parts, I did think it was funny how often Shakespeare was able to summarize what was going on in characters' speech in these three scenes. I found Viola's lines to be especially amusing (2.2.33-35) as she spells out the whole love-mishap setup just in case an audience member was horribly confused. Feste's singing (2.3.34-39) also speaks of various lovers' paths crossing.
I loved the return of the knuckleheads in scene three. They continue to be hilarious, with Andrew's comment "Ay, Ay I care not for good life!" and Feste's "I shall never begin if I hold my peace." I thought that they were a much needed break after the seriousness of Viola's predicament and Antonio being creepy.
My love did not stop when Malvolio entered, because I love the words he uses in his lines, for example in his first "gabble like tinkers". Toby and Feste's drunken song added more awesomeness and Toby's insult "Dost thou think that because thou art virtuous there shall be no more cakes and ale?" was the perfect way to take Malvolio down a notch (if, indeed this is possible). I really like the relationship Malvolio has with these characters, mostly for the hilarity of insults they throw at him.
I really like the parts of the scenes with Sir Toby and company, especially all Sir Andrew's lines. There hilariously over the top. In Act 2, scene 3 lines, after Sir Toby says "Excellant! I smell a device", Sir Andrew says "I have't in my nose too". Sir Andrew is just trying to copy Sir Toby and feel included in the plot, but it's just so ridiculous it almost seems witty.
After looking over some other people's comments about Malvolio and Sir Toby and Sir Andrew and Sebastian and Antonio, I started thinking about status and the different reasons why some characters hold more power than others. The dynamics of a relationship isn't just based on who has the higher social status, but also on how the character's feel about each other and the intelligence of the character. If one character is in love with or dumber than another character, they give up a lot of power to that other character. It's interesting that Shakespeare puts more importance on these internal things, love and wit, rather than social rank. A good example is Sir Andrew who is a gentleman and very wealth, but has a lot less power than Sir Toby, this drunk hanger-on, and even Maria. Their wit and intelligence allows them a higher status, because they're smart enough to get what want. Whereas Sir Andrew can't really think for himself.
Act 2 Scene Lines 16-40:
I have always loved Viola's "ring monologue." It is one of the most important parts of the play (as well as one of the most overdone monologues in auditions). The last rhyming couplet of the monologue (and the scene) is one of the best that Shakespeare ever wrote: "O time, thou must untangle this, not I: It is too hard a knot for me t'untie." The use of both not and knot is such a breathtaking literary device.
Act 2 Scene 3 Lines 1-10:
I love the opening of this scene. As usual, Toby and Andrew are drunk, but I think this conversation is one of their more amusing ones. When I read it I actually found myself trying to make sense of their logic: some of it actually works which is surprising. I just find their fascination with time and sleep amusing and then Toby's discussion of the four elements come out of the blue. Shakespeare sure knows how to write beautiful, witty, and drunken prose.
In Act 2 Scene 1 I was really struck by Antonio's devotion to a sister he seems to hardly know, and his mourning,
"She is drowned already, sir, with salt water, though I seem to drown her remembrance again with more."
I also find it interesting that even in Shakespeare's time there was a known strong connection between twins. However, it can't be too strong if he thinks that his sister Viola is dead when she is actually alive and well.
Also, Viola's monologue at the end of scene two presented an argument that both modern men and women still have. She is contemplating the return of the ring that she never even gave to Olivia, and at one time curses her disguise because it will ultimately hurt Olivia, but also cherishes it because it allows her to be closer to Orsino. Bros before hoes.
Act 2 scene 1 line 30
This line stuck out to me because of how different Sebastian's relationship with Antonio is compared to Orsino and his servants. Orsino just wants to be attended to and admired by his servants, but Sebastian seems to even respect Antonio when he says "O good Antonio, forgive me your trouble," apologizing for feeling bad. I think this treatment makes Antonio all the more willing to serve Sebastian, almost as if they are friends and equals. Also, I agree with those that suggested the possibility of romantic tension between these two characters.
Act 2 Scene 2 lines 16-40 (Viola's sililoquey)
I really loved Viola's speech here after Malvolio throws the rng on the ground and leaves. Viola realizes from the small event of the ring that Olivia loves her/Cesario. I thought it was interesting how she began to feel bad for disguising herself and falsely leading everyone, especially Olivia, on. She also asks herself, "How will this fadge?" which I liked because she is relating to the audience here, since we technically don't know yet either. I think this passage shows how perceptive Viola is about everything that is happening around her and realizes that she has got herself in a situation that she has no idea how to fix.
What I thought interesting was when Malvolio returned the ring to Viola in scene two. More than that, though, I was impressed with how Shakespeare had Viola narrate the entire play in one paragraph on page 29. She acutely describes the love triangle, yet she pointedly leaves out any mention of Sebastian. This sets up the scene for Sebastian's arrival in Ileria, when the comedy really gets going and the miscommunications are hilarious. Shakespeare even then tells the slower members of the audience what to expect and sets the stage for the next acts.
Another scene that spoke to me was from lines 77-89. During Malvolio's monolague, his character is deeply expanded upon and the sentiments of the audience (who probably have to put up with other's like this in real life) are automatically disposed against Malvolio. This allows Shakespeare to make fun of Malvoili without having Malvolio appear a victim. If Malvoilo appeared an innocent victim, it would not be so funny as if the audience wanted him to be punished.
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