Shakespeare Stories - Twelfth Night (with CD)

Author: Shakespeare
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: Twelfth Night, also known as What You Will, is the only play by Shakespeare to have two titles. "Will" refers to desire, longing, or passion. "Twelfth Night" refers to the last night of the Christmas holiday, which is January 6th, the Epiphany. During the Elizabethan era, the Epiphany had evolved into a carnival festival, with Twelfth Night being the peak of the celebration. Even the church found it difficult to curb the festivities. By its name, the play is like a fantastical carnival world detached from reality. The story primarily depicts the misunderstandings and chaos caused by a pair of identical twins. The setting of the story is Illyria, a place generally believed to be inhabited by somewhat mad people. In such a world, any strange event does not require a reasonable explanation, and all irrational outcomes are valid. Some consider this play to be Shakespeare's last festive comedy, with multiple interpretations during its performances; in the 18th century, it emphasized the comedic aspects; in the 19th century, it began to highlight the romantic elements; by the 20th century, it remained one of Shakespeare's most popular comedies, especially prominent during Christmas.
Introduction: Twelfth Night, also known as What You Will, is the only play by Shakespeare to have two titles. "Will" refers to desire, longing, or passion. "Twelfth Night" refers to the last night of the Christmas holiday, which is January 6th, the Epiphany. During the Elizabethan era, the Epiphany had evolved into a carnival festival, with Twelfth Night being the peak of the celebration. Even the church found it difficult to curb the festivities. By its name, the play is like a fantastical carnival world detached from reality. The story primarily depicts the misunderstandings and chaos caused by a pair of identical twins. The setting of the story is Illyria, a place generally believed to be inhabited by somewhat mad people. In such a world, any strange event does not require a reasonable explanation, and all irrational outcomes are valid. Some consider this play to be Shakespeare's last festive comedy, with multiple interpretations during its performances; in the 18th century, it emphasized the comedic aspects; in the 19th century, it began to highlight the romantic elements; by the 20th century, it remained one of Shakespeare's most popular comedies, especially prominent during Christmas.