Twelfth Night, Act 2, Scene 5 summary
Act 2, Scene 5 of 18 · 8 min to read the scene
In Act 2, Scene 5, Maria plants a false love letter that persuades Malvolio that Olivia loves him, while Sir Toby, Sir Andrew, and Fabian secretly watch. Malvolio decides to follow its instructions, and Maria explains that his clothes, smiles, and manners directly oppose Olivia’s tastes and present sadness.
What happens
- Maria leaves a letter in Malvolio’s path and tells Sir Toby, Sir Andrew, and Fabian to hide.
- Malvolio imagines marrying Olivia, becoming a count, and using his authority to rebuke Sir Toby.
- He finds the letter, recognizes what he believes is Olivia’s handwriting, and forces its mysterious initials to fit his name.
- The letter urges pride, rude behavior, yellow stockings, crossed garters, and constant smiling; Malvolio accepts these instructions.
- After Malvolio leaves, Maria explains why these choices offend Olivia’s tastes, and the delighted plotters follow her.
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In this scene
What to notice
The letter presents social advancement as destiny. This appeal encourages Malvolio to treat its strange instructions as a route to marriage and higher rank.
Quick check
Why does Maria expect Malvolio’s smiling to seem ridiculous to Olivia?
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