Shakespeare & The Renaissance Blog 1

Which character in 12th Night do you feel most attracted to? Can you describe the character and say what it is in particular that draws your interest.

Surprisingly, or perhaps not surprisingly as we shall discuss, I find myself most interested in the character of Feste. Ostensibly Olivia’s fool, as he states “cucullus non facitmonachum” (I.v., the cowl makes not a monk). Feste’s playful, yet insightful observations on the characters he encounters lie at the core of Twelfth Night. Hidden beneath the puns and innuendo is a wisdom that has been concealed by foolishness. In so doing, he can openly challenge the ideas and attitudes of others without invoking their wrath.

But as well? Then you are mad, indeed, if you be no

better in your wits than a fool (IV.ii.)

A fine example of such is his ability to highlight Orsino’s flaws to him, a man in love with an idolised idea he has constructed within his head. He subtly suggests that Orsino is in love with the notion of falling in love.

“Foolery, sir, does walk about the orb like the sun, it shines everywhere” (III.i.)

Viola recognises this talent in Feste, which Shakespeare uses as another subtle nod to her own capabilities in comparison to the nonsensical ideas of other characters.

“…This is a practice

As full of labour as a wise man’s art,

For folly, that he wisely shows is fit,

But wise men, folly-fall’n, quite taint their wit” (III.i.)