SmartPass Audio Education Study Guide to Twelfth Night (Unabridged, Dramatised) characters

Appears from the start

The ruler of Illyria, absorbed in his unreturned love for Olivia. He surrounds himself with music and sends messengers to press his suit, even though Olivia has withdrawn from courtship while mourning her brother.

Also known as Cesario

First appears in chapter 2

A young gentlewoman rescued after a shipwreck on the coast of Illyria. Believing her twin brother Sebastian lost, she decides to disguise herself as a young man called Cesario and seek service with Orsino.

First appears in chapter 6

Viola's twin brother, separated from her during the shipwreck and initially presumed dead by her. His close resemblance to Viola in disguise later creates confusion in Illyria.

First appears in chapter 2

A sea captain who helps Viola reach shore. He explains the local situation and agrees to keep her identity secret while she enters Orsino's household in disguise.

First appears in chapter 5

A wealthy countess who is refusing suitors during a period of mourning for her brother. Orsino's repeated approaches do not move her, but the arrival of his eloquent new messenger immediately interests her.

First appears in chapter 3

Olivia's uncle, a heavy drinker who stays in her house and resents any interference with his late-night pleasures. He encourages Sir Andrew's hopeless courtship of Olivia and joins Maria in mocking the severe Malvolio.

First appears in chapter 3

A rich but foolish knight whom Sir Toby keeps nearby as a drinking companion and prospective suitor to Olivia. Vain about his accomplishments yet easily discouraged, he accepts Toby's assurances that Olivia may favor him.

First appears in chapter 3

Olivia's quick-witted attendant. She criticizes Sir Toby's disorderly habits but enjoys verbal play and soon recognizes that Malvolio's self-regard can be used against him.

First appears in chapter 5

Olivia's steward, formal and disapproving toward the revelers in her household. He considers himself more responsible than those around him and treats their jokes and drinking with open contempt.

First appears in chapter 5

A professional fool attached to Olivia's household. His songs and wordplay conceal a sharp ability to expose other people's inconsistencies, whether he is speaking with Olivia, Orsino, or the household servants.

First appears in chapter 6

A sea captain who rescued Sebastian and formed a devoted attachment to him. He has enemies at Orsino's court because of an earlier naval fight, making it dangerous for him to accompany Sebastian into Illyria.

First appears in chapter 10

A member of Olivia's household who joins Sir Toby and Maria in their campaign against Malvolio. He helps observe the steward's reaction to the forged letter and later takes part in the challenge arranged for Cesario.