Another essential device that Shakespeare relies upon heavily in Twelfth Night is imagery. Imagery refers to any suggestion of a physical, sensory object or state evoked by the text of the play. The play's imagery can include:
• descriptive words that refer to any aspect of the physical world or any details of setting
• metaphorical language that makes use of sensory imagery
• language used to describe the physical appearance of a character
• language used to describe the psychological, emotional, or spiritual state of a character
• language that implies a symbolic meaning associated with a character or with plot actions or patterns in the play
When evaluating the imagery in a scene, consider which of your senses are being appealed to. Is it describing the way something looks, sounds, smells, tastes, or feels? The official terms for those sensations are
visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory, and tactile, respectively. Consider, too, whether certain patterns of images exist, erupting again and again throughout the play. Are there certain images you have come to
associate with certain characters? What mood do these images establish?
As you approach the midpoint of Twelfth Night, you have been exposed to many characters who are ruled by love love for brothers, for friends, for those who scom them, for those who are oblivious, and even
for themselves. In addition, Shakespeare has presented many secondary characters who help you understand the primary characters more fully. Furthermore, this romantic comedy incorporates various types of
humor as it reveals character, advances the plot, and explores the nuances and complexities of love. In this lesson, you will have the opportunity to write a persuasive essay on one of these issues. Before you
begin brainstorming and ultimately writing your rough draft, review the rubric so that you are familiar with the expectations and standards accompanying this project.