Twelfth Night, Line by Line Modern Translation: Shakespeare

Twelfth Night Translation

Twelfth Night Translation

In the aftermath of a shipwreck, Viola arrives in the foreign land of Illyria. Adopting the guise of a young man to serve Duke Orsino, she unexpectedly falls in love with him. This attraction leads to a complex entanglement when Olivia, the countess whom Orsino desires, develops feelings for Viola's masculine alter ego. Twelfth Night introduces a lively ensemble of characters, including Malvolio, Toby Belch, and Andrew Aguecheek, while weaving a tale of capricious fortune, longing, affection, and eventual reunion. The Shakescleare modern English translation of the play facilitates comprehension of Shakespeare's language and offers insight into iconic lines like 'If music be the food of love, play on,' and 'Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.'

Table of Contents

  • Act 1, Scene 1
    Orsino listens to love songs as Valentine reports his inability to speak with Olivia.
  • Act 1, Scene 2
    Shipwrecked Viola learns about Orsino and decides to serve him in disguise.
  • Act 1, Scene 3
    Sir Toby Belch and Maria discuss Sir Andrew before a humorous entrance.
  • Act 1, Scene 4
    Viola (dressed as Cesario) gains Orsino's trust to woo Olivia.
  • Act 1, Scene 5
    The fool provides comic relief as Viola attempts to woo Olivia.

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