Twelfth Night

Social and gender norms are in disorder throughout the entire play. Viola presented herself to Orsino as a eunuch. Viola decision to disguise herself as Cesario proves to be successful.  Valentine tells Viola “Cesario, you are like to be much advanced.  He hath known you but three days, and already you are no stranger” (1.4.2-4). Social and gender norms are in disorder during Maria’s interactions with Sir Andrew. Maria speaks openly to Sir Toby about her feelings toward Sir Andrew and says “he’s a fool” (1.3.27).  I perceived Maria’s attitude in 1.3 as condescending toward Sir Andrew. Gender roles also appear to be switched when Olivia asks Sebastian (assumed to be Cesario) “nay, come, I prithee. Would thou’dst be ruled by me!” and Sebastian responds “Madam, I will” (4.1.61-62).

Viola had discovered Sebastian had not died in the wreck and is delighted. Order is restored when Viola exposes her disguise. Luckily for Viola, Orsino felt affection toward her. Orsino releases Viola as his servant and declares she is “Your Master’s mistress” (5.1.320).  Olivia discovers she had married Sebastian instead of Viola.  We observe that Olivia’s love is no longer restricted by death of her brother and father. Malvolio does not have order restored in his live. Malvolio is humiliated by everyone and declares: “I’ll be revenged on the whole pack of you!” (5.1.373). 

Sir Andrew is discouraged that he will not gain Olivia as a wife. Sir Toby comforts Sir Andrew and informs him “she’ll none o’ th’ Count. She’ll not match above her degree, neither in estate, years, nor wit. I have heard her swear’t. Tut, theres life in’t, man” (1.3.102-04). Maintaining social order is observed in Sir Toby’s statement; Olivia will not break social rank, status, or age for marriage. The most puzzling element of the play is that the 17th century gender and social order still shocks 21^st century American audiences.