The First Night Of Twelfth Night

by Leslie Hotson

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256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1954

Reviews

[Ceola Daly · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded up

[James F · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hotson presents a theory that Shakepeare's Twelfth Night was written for and first performed at the Twelfth Night celebration of 1601 at Queen Elizabeth's court at Whitehall. He discovered evidence that a play with music, presumably by the Lord Chamberlain's company (i.e. Shakespeare's company) was performed on that occasion, and that the guest of honor was a Duke Orsino of Bracciano. Based on this theory, he finds allusions to the occasion in the play, suggesting that Malvolio was based on Sir William Knollys, the Lord Controller, and his affair with Mary Fitton; that the scene where Viola/Cesario presents the memorized message of Orsino was making fun of the Muscovite ambassador then present at court; and explains various other passages of the play. Very interesting and quite probable, although not accepted by all.

[Victoria Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting and well researched. Elizabeth I was a truly great diplomat. Visiting dignitaries from Russia and Tuscany were lavishly entertained - she knew they would report back to European leaders. Their letters testify to the grand treatment. Orsino in the play is based on Tuscan aristocrat of the Medici family and brother to the Queen of France. The play was performed at Whitehall in his honour and by all accounts was written quite quickly for the Twelth Night celebrations. Some explanations of contemporary jokes, language and background. I think it merits a re-read as there was so much information to absorb.