What Makes Act 2 Scene 5 Both Amusing and Significant?

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What makes Act 2 Scene 5 both amusing and significant? “Twelfth Night’ is a romantic comedy that takes place in the mysterious lands of Illyria. Shakespeare’s choice of calling the play ‘Twelfth Night,’ signifies the twelfth night of the Christmas celebration, and means that the contemporary audience would go to watch the play, and expect it to be a comedy or at least a festive play. As expected, Act 2 Scene 5 plays the role of amusing the audience. At the same time, it is also significant as it creates a subplot involving Sir Toby Belch, Fabian, Sir Andrew, Maria and Malvolio. Shakespeare starts the Scene by showing us Fabian’s sheer excitement with their plan, as he would rather be “boiled to death with melancholy.” This builds up anticipation amongst the audience, as we eagerly await the unravelling of this seemingly intelligent/unmissable trick that the men, and Maria, are trying to play on Malvolio. Shakespeare does not yet reveal the trick; instead he continues to develop our anticipation. Sir Toby Belch and Fabian start to discuss how much this “rascally sheep-biter” deserves to “come by some notable shame,” as he once brought me (Fabian) out O’favour with my lady.” At this point, Shakespeare shows us the character of Malvolio: we see that Malvolio is a killjoy; and it makes us dislike him. It also makes us somewhat admire Sir Toby and Fabian for carrying out a plan, which can potentially bring him “notable shame.” Shakespeare next shows us the “little villain” behind the plan. Maria. Shakespeare builds on our impression of Maria as an intelligent character, who deserves to be of a higher social standing; via her ability to create a brilliant plan and carry it out to perfection. Maria’s dialogue is very imperative. She commands the men to “Get you all three into the box tree.” This shows us her leadership skills, making this scene significant as
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