How Does Viola Use Deception In Twelfth Night

David Wall

Mrs. Anderson

ENG1D

28 April 2015

Lies and Deceit in Twelfth Night

In William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, the theme of lies and deceit is consistent throughout. Although some characters deceive more than others, they all play an important role in the deception of the play. There are various occasions in Twelfth Night where lies and deceit are used, such as through Viola's disguise, Sir Toby's fabrications and the pranks played on certain characters.

The use of disguises in the play deceives many characters. Viola's use of a disguise not only deceives strangers but also relatives.When Viola says, "Disguise, I see thou art a wickedness," she is indicating that for the time that she has been disguised, she has deceived many people and Olivia has fallen in love with her thinking that she is a man named Cesario (2.2.26). Viola then says, "O time, thou must untangle this, not I: / It is too hard a knot for me t'untie." meaning only time could possibly get her out of the mess that the disguise has gotten her in to (2.2.39-40). Later on it the play when Sabastian, Viola's twin brother enters the play other

This is evident through the many occasions of deception. When Sir Toby tells Sir Andrew, "Why, man, he's a very devil; I have not seen such a firago." he is telling him that Cesario is a strong and brave warrior, when in fact Cesario is really afraid. His cowardice is known because he says, "Pray God defend me!" (3.4.276). Sir Toby then tells Sir Andrew and Cesario, that the opposing challenger is strong and brave but they are both afraid due to Sir Toby's lies. Sir Toby only wants them to dual for his personal entertainment. In the mean time Sir Andrew is so frightened of Cesario and wishes that he had never challenged him to a dual, and is willing to give up his horse instead of battling Cesario, all because Sir Toby's lies. This is noticeable when he says, "Pox on't. I'll not meddle with