Twelfth Night: An Intriguing Exploration of the Intersection of Religion, Culture, and Literature at the Smithsonian Libraries
Twelfth Night is one of William Shakespeare’s most beloved plays. Its comical yet tragic nature has intrigued audiences for centuries. Twelfth Night was written in 1601 and was first performed at the close of the Christmas season, which is why it is named after the twelfth night of Christmas festivities.
One of the most unique aspects of Twelfth Night is its gender bending plot. The story follows the character Viola, who is shipwrecked on the coast of Illyria. Disguised as a man and calling herself Cesario, Viola becomes the servant of Duke Orsino, who is in love with the Countess Olivia. Olivia, however, falls in love with Cesario instead of Orsino, leading to a host of comedic and tragic misunderstandings.
Twelfth Night is not only a play about love and its illusions, but it also explores themes of identity, social class, and gender roles. Shakespeare’s portrayal of Viola as both a woman and a man challenges traditional gender norms and highlights the absurdity of societal expectations placed upon individuals. The play also touches upon the misuse of power and the consequences of making hasty decisions without considering their impacts.
The Smithsonian Libraries is home to numerous resources related to Shakespeare and Twelfth Night. One of the most notable items is a first folio copy of the play, which was printed in 1623, seven years after Shakespeare’s death. The Smithsonian’s first folio copy is special because it is one of only 234 known copies in existence.
Another valuable resource is a 1607 edition of Plautus’ play Amphitruo. Twelfth Night is believed to have been influenced by both Plautus’ Amphitruo and the Italian play Gl’Ingannati (The Deceived Ones). The Smithsonian’s copy of Amphitruo is an example of the types of plays that Shakespeare would have been familiar with and uses for inspiration.
A Journey Through the Intersection of Religion, Culture, and Literature With Twelfth Night at the Smithsonian Libraries
Additionally, the Smithsonian Libraries houses various scholarly articles and books that explore the influences, themes, and historical context of Twelfth Night. One such book is Twelfth Night: A Guide to the Play by Neil King. This book delves into the play’s complex themes and provides insight into the historical context in which it was written and performed.
The Smithsonian Libraries’ collection of Twelfth Night resources not only provides valuable insights into the play itself but also allows for a deeper understanding of Shakespeare as a writer and his contributions to literature. By exploring the influences and historical context of Twelfth Night, scholars and enthusiasts alike can gain a greater appreciation for Shakespeare’s unique style and his ability to create enduring works of art that continue to captivate audiences after centuries.
In conclusion, Twelfth Night is a timeless play that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day. By exploring the resources available at the Smithsonian Libraries, we can gain a greater understanding of the play’s themes and the historical context in which it was written. Twelfth Night’s exploration of gender, identity, and the misuse of power remains relevant and thought-provoking, and Shakespeare’s masterful storytelling continues to captivate and delight audiences after centuries.
