Who Sir Toby Belch is
Sir Toby Belch drinks, sings and jokes late into the night at Olivia's house in Illyria. Malvolio runs the household as steward, but Toby rules its spirit through noise and mischief.
What Sir Toby Belch wants
Toby wants Sir Andrew's money and encourages him to keep pursuing Olivia, though she has refused suitors. He also seeks amusement by urging Andrew to challenge Cesario, whom Andrew sees as a rival for Olivia. Toby tells each reluctant fighter that the other is a fierce swordsman, making their fear part of his entertainment.
Sir Toby Belch and the others in the story
Olivia is Toby's niece, and he lives off her while disrupting the quiet of her household. Maria shares his taste for mischief and plans the forged letter that plays on Malvolio's ambition.
When Malvolio scolds Toby for drinking at night, Toby joins Maria and Sir Andrew in plotting revenge. He hides with Andrew and Fabian to watch Malvolio discover the letter and believe Olivia loves him. His part in the trick shows how the household's merriment can become a source of real hurt.
Questions
Who is Sir Toby Belch related to?
Sir Toby Belch is Olivia's uncle and lives in her household.
Why does Sir Toby encourage Sir Andrew?
He wants Andrew's money, so he keeps Andrew hopeful about winning Olivia.
Why does Sir Toby dislike Malvolio?
Malvolio objects to Toby's noisy drinking and tells him to stop. Toby responds by helping to plot a humiliating trick against the steward.