Julie Tagg| Think and Write for CSEC English A and B

“Twelfth Night” is one of William Shakespeare’s most beloved plays. It is set in the fictional land of Illyria, where the characters are all caught up in a web of mistaken identities and misguided love. Among these characters is Feste, the court jester, who is considered to be the mastermind and controller of the play. In this essay, I will provide a detailed exploration of Feste’s role in “Twelfth Night,” examine the extent to which I agree with the statement above, and discuss the dramatic effect that Feste has on the play.

Feste is one of the most significant and complex characters in “Twelfth Night.” He is a source of comic relief, entertainment, and wisdom. As the court jester, he is free to speak his mind and make witty observations, often amusing the other characters and the audience. However, his role in the play is much more than just a comedic character. He provides a voice of reason and serves as a moral compass throughout the play. Feste’s intelligence, wit, and insight make him one of the most interesting and compelling characters in the play.

Feste is a master of disguise and has the ability to blend in with any situation. This is why he is often referred to as the controller of the play. He moves freely between different classes, from the high society of Olivia’s court to the lowly ranks of Sir Toby and Sir Andrew. He is involved in many of the plots and schemes that unfold throughout the story. Feste’s role is not just to provide amusement to the audience but to be an essential part of the unfolding events of the play.

Feste’s contribution to the play’s overall tone is significant. He adds humor and levity even in moments of great tension and conflict. His presence is often used to contrast the foolishness of the other characters, highlighting his own intelligence and insight. Feste’s character provides depth and complexity to the play’s exploration of themes such as love, identity, and the nature of reality. He is a character who is not afraid to speak his mind and who, through his songs and jests, provides a lens through which the audience can see the various characters’ innermost thoughts and desires. This adds to the play’s overall dramatic effect and makes Feste a crucial and memorable character.

In conclusion, Feste is a complex and multi-dimensional character who plays a significant role in “Twelfth Night.” While it is fair to say that he is the mastermind and controller of the play, his role is much more than that. He is not just a puppet master manipulating the other characters, but a fully realized character in his own right, with his own motivations and desires. Feste’s wit, wisdom, and insight make him one of the most memorable characters in the play, and his contribution to the play’s overall tone and themes cannot be overstated.