Love In Shakespeare's Twelfth Night

Love is an essential human desire. Once it is caught, dramatic, unexpected changes in ones life occur. Protecting the people one loves is a natural instinct that cannot be controlled. William Shakespeare demonstrates this in Twelfth Night through the relationship between Antonio and Sebastian. Furthermore, Viola continues to ensure the happiness of Orsino is met even if that means sacrificing the happiness of herself. Also, love is evident when one pays attention to, and dedicates himself to the small details in other peoples lives. William Shakespeare demonstrates in Twelfth Night the nature of true love through loyal friendship, bold romance and secretive love. Love is a powerful force, grabbing one and making him or her do drastic acts

Despite the fact that it would be incredibly dangerous for him to go there, he is willing to if it means he is able to be by the side of his friend: “I have many enemies in Orsino’s court, / Else would I very shortly see thee there. / But, come what may, I do adore thee so / That danger shall seem sport, and I will go.” (Act 2, Scene 1, 38-41). Sacrificing his safety for that of Sebastian reveals how strongly Antonio truly loves Sebastian. When loving someone, it is instinct to protect them when they are in danger. For example, Antonio comes to “Sebastian’s” rescue when he is being challenged by men of Illyrya. “Put up your sword. If this young gentleman / Have done offence, I take the fault on me. / If you offend him, I for him defy you.” (Act 3, Scene 4, Li 281-283). Despite the danger Antonio was putting himself into, he still came to his friends rescue. He is willing to take the blame for the crimes that “Sebastian” has committed if that means that his valued companion will be safe. As humans it is expected that one would want to protect him or herself over the people around them. But when one is in love all logic is thrown out the window and he is willing to do anything to be with and protect the people whom

At times it is quiet and sweet, shown in the little actions and sayings that are done with little awareness. This the love shared between Toby and Maria. When reading the text it is not one of the relationships that immediately will catch the readers’ attention but it is still a strong example of true love. Usually in a household it is mandatory for the maids to respect the noble people of the household. But rather Maria is bluntly tells Sir Toby to be quiet’: “For the love of ' God, peace!” (Act 2, Scene 3, Li 81). Through this it is seen they have a strong relationship because she is able to reply to him rudely and Sir Toby is not offended. Rather the two of them banter and joke to one another. For example, Sir Toby refers to her as a wonderful woman: “Good night, Penthesilea.” (Act 2, Scene 3, Li 157) Constantly through the play Toby speaks to Maria endearingly, calling her Penthesilea is one of the several examples through the piece. The direct translation of Penthesilea is “you wonderful woman you”. The love shared between Toby and Maria is different than that of the people around them. Rather than being loud about their love, it is shown in the little things they say and do to each other. The nature of love is not always shown using big gestures and songs but in how you solely treat that