Twelfth Night - Emma Smith on Language - AO5

What is iambic pentameter?

A rhythmic pattern of five iambs per line.

What is the impact of "If music be the food of love, give me excess of it, that surfeiting, the appetite may sicken and so die"?

- Uses iambic pentameter

- Speech

- Formality

- Creates a sense of narcissism

- Shows that this is not how the play is going to end

- Focus on the idea of love rather than the object of love

What does a soliloquy suggest?

Soliloquy expresses something opposite to the comic plot

What is the significance of Feste's name?

Derived from 'Festival', symbolizing celebration.

What is the significance of Viola's "I am the man" Soliloquy?

Highlights complexity and tension in her identity. Emphasises the jeopardy of the moment.

What does "O time thou must..." show about comedy and time?

Synopsis of comedy - time resolves conflicts in comedic narratives.

What does the fact that the letters in the letter are all parts of Malvolio's name show about overlap between names?

Overlap between names - creates a link between these characters who have their own complexity relating to love (though not the main love triangle)

Which two characters names are anagrams of each other?

Viola and Olivia are anagrams of each other

What is the significance of Malvolio's name?

Incorporates 'Mal', indicating negativity in character.

What does Antonio's love for Sebastian counter?

Antonio's selfless love counters Malvolio self love

How does Emma Smith describe Malvolio's speech after reading the letter?

"looks like a speech of realisation but is ultimately a speech of self deception"