Sebastian
Extended Character Analysis
Sebastian is Viola’s twin brother, who becomes lost in the shipwreck. Sebastian is pragmatic and kind. He is not as passionate as other characters in Twelfth Night and appears to be fairly calm in relation to the wildly loving characters surrounding him, such as Lady Olivia and Antonio.
Sebastian and Antonio’s Relationship
Antonio is Sebastian’s friend and rescuer. He shows an arguably dangerous amount of love and loyalty toward Sebastian. Antonio claims to love Sebastian deeply after having saved him and nursed him back to health. When Sebastian travels to Illyria, Antonio follows, despite being wanted by Orsino and his men.
After arriving in Illyria, Sebastian is shown further kindness by Antonio, who offers him his money. Sebastian accepts it, despite his higher social class. This shows Sebastian’s dependence on Antonio, who has become a sort of nurturer and caretaker for him. Without Antonio, Sebastian would not have arrived in Illyria or survived the shipwreck.
Sebastian and Olivia
Sebastian becomes distracted once in Illyria. After parting with Antonio and promising to reunite with him later, he wanders off and meets Lady Olivia. Upon meeting Olivia, he finds himself in wondrous circumstances: the wealthy and beautiful Lady Olivia is in love with him and wants to marry him, believing that he is Cesario.
In an act of nonchalance and perhaps madness, he wonders at Olivia’s seemingly unfounded love and contemplates marriage. Sebastian even believes that he is mad, or “else this is a dream . . . . If it be thus to dream, still let me sleep!” His wish to continue his “dream” shows his oddly ideal situation as well as his satisfaction with it. He is unsure of what to say to Olivia, and he wishes for Antonio’s presence, saying “His counsel might do me golden service.” This comment shows that he trusts Antonio and wants his advice.
However, in a logical yet hasty decision, Sebastian decides to marry Olivia, seeing that marrying her will bring him wealth and social stature. Sebastian’s role in the play allows Lady Olivia to have a heterosexual marriage with someone who appears to be her beloved Cesario. With Sebastian’s arrival, the comedy begins to fall into place. Soon, the main characters are paired happily with their loves.
At the end of the play, Sebastian is reunited with Antonio and greets him with affection. Sebastian is also reunited with Viola, and the confusion over identity is solved, ending all duplicity.
Expert Q&A
Exploring the relationship between Sebastian and Antonio in Twelfth Night
The relationship between Sebastian and Antonio in Twelfth Night is one of deep friendship and loyalty. Antonio rescues Sebastian and cares for him, showing unwavering support and affection. This bond highlights themes of devotion and selflessness, contrasting with the play's other more complex and deceptive relationships.
Character analysis and first impressions of Sebastian in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night
Sebastian in Twelfth Night is presented as a loyal and loving brother who is deeply mournful over the presumed loss of his sister, Viola. Initially, he appears resilient and adventurous, as he decides to explore Illyria despite his grief. His character is also marked by kindness and nobility, making a positive first impression on the audience.
Why is Sebastian surprised to meet Olivia in Twelfth Night?
Sebastian is surprised to meet Olivia because she mistakes him for Cesario, who is actually his twin sister Viola in disguise. Viola and Sebastian look alike, leading Olivia to confuse the two. Despite his confusion over Olivia's familiarity and affection, Sebastian accepts her invitation, feeling as though he is in a dream. The situation is so surreal that Sebastian wonders if he has lost his senses.
From Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, why do Olivia and Sebastian agree to a quick marriage?
Olivia and Sebastian agree to a quick marriage due to a combination of mistaken identity and impulsive decisions influenced by the festive atmosphere. Olivia mistakes Sebastian for Cesario, whom she has previously encountered, and proposes impulsively. Sebastian, captivated by Olivia's beauty and social status, accepts the proposal, seeing it as a fortunate opportunity. His decision reflects a willingness to embrace the unexpected and follow his heart despite the chaotic circumstances.
In Twelfth Night, why did Antonio follow Sebastian despite lack of payment?
Antonio follows Sebastian out of a sense of responsibility and strong friendship, having rescued him from a stormy sea. Despite being an enemy to Duke Orsino and Illyria, Antonio is concerned for Sebastian's safety in unfamiliar territory. His willingness to guide and protect Sebastian highlights deep loyalty and devotion, as he prioritizes their friendship over personal risk and financial gain, offering his support purely out of "willing love."
What circumstances led to Sebastian's apology in Twelfth Night?
How does Sebastian react to Feste in Twelfth Night?
Sebastian reacts to Feste in Twelfth Night with surprise and confusion. Feste seems to know who he is, but Sebastian doesn't know Feste at all. In a case of mistaken identity, Feste has mixed up Sebastian with his twin, Viola, who's disguised as Cesario.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
