Twelfth Night Study Guide & Plot Synopsis

Twelfth Night Plot Synopsis

Preview of Twelfth Night Summary:

Act I:

Orsino, the Duke of Illyria, is lovesick for Olivia, and has been trying to court her. His attendant arrives with the news that Olivia is discouraging suitors through her decision to mourn her brother's death for seven years. Meanwhile, Viola lands on the shore of Illyria after a shipwreck, assuming her twin brother has been lost at sea. The captain who saved her tells her of Orsino and Olivia, and helps to disguise her as a pageboy, to be known as Cesario, so she can work for Orsino. At Olivia's house, Sir Toby persuades Sir Andrew to continue pursuing Olivia for a wife. After only three days in Orsino's service, Viola/Cesario has won his confidence. She agrees to court Olivia for him, but secretly wishes to be his wife. When Viola/Cesario arrives to see Olivia, Malvolio attempts to send her away. Olivia, however, relents and receives Viola/Cesario, who begins romancing...
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