Twelfth Night: Sir Andrew's Subplot and the Theme of True Love

The Development of Sir Andrew's Subplot

Sir Andrew Aguecheek is a foolish character in William Shakespeare's comedy play "Twelfth Night". His subplot in the play serves to develop the theme that "true love cannot be bought".

Sir Andrew is a wealthy, but unintelligent nobleman who is easily manipulated by Sir Toby Belch and Maria. He is constantly seeking the affection of Lady Olivia and believes that by displaying his wealth through gifts and lavish gestures, he can win her love.

However, Sir Andrew's attempts to woo Lady Olivia are repeatedly unsuccessful, as she is more interested in the Duke Orsino and eventually falls in love with Cesario, who is actually Viola disguised as a man. Sir Andrew's comical pursuit of Lady Olivia reflects the idea that true love cannot be bought with material possessions or through superficial displays of affection.

Viola, Duke Orsino, and Countess Olivia

In contrast to Sir Andrew's misguided attempts at love, the main storyline of "Twelfth Night" follows the journey of Viola, Duke Orsino, and Countess Olivia.

Viola, after surviving a shipwreck, disguises herself as a man named Cesario and serves Duke Orsino. Over time, Viola falls in love with Orsino, while Orsino himself is in love with Olivia. However, Olivia ends up falling for Cesario (Viola in disguise) instead of Orsino.

This love triangle between Viola, Orsino, and Olivia highlights the complexities of true love and the importance of genuine emotional connections over material wealth or superficial gestures.

Ultimately, the subplot involving Sir Andrew and the main storyline of Viola, Orsino, and Olivia come together to underscore Shakespeare's thematic exploration that "true love cannot be bought".

Which theme does Sir Andrew's subplot develop in "Twelfth Night"?

Sir Andrew's subplot develops the theme that "true love cannot be bought".