Twelfth Night, Act 1, Scene 5 summary
Act 1, Scene 5 of 18 · 12 min to read the scene
In Act 1, Scene 5, Olivia defends the Clown against Malvolio, then admits Viola and hears Orsino’s appeal in private. She refuses Orsino but feels drawn to his messenger, sending Malvolio after Viola with a ring and an invitation to return.
What happens
- Maria warns the Clown about his absence, and he wins Olivia’s attention by questioning her mourning.
- Malvolio attacks the Clown’s wit, but Olivia criticizes Malvolio’s self-love and defends harmless jokes.
- Olivia sends the Clown to watch her drunken cousin, Sir Toby, while Malvolio reports that the visitor refuses to leave.
- Viola gains a private audience, praises Olivia’s beauty, and describes Orsino’s passionate love.
- Olivia rejects Orsino but asks about Viola’s family after hearing how Viola imagines pleading for love.
- After Viola leaves, Olivia acknowledges her attraction and sends Malvolio with a ring she claims the messenger leaves behind.
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In this scene
What to notice
Olivia recognizes her attraction to the messenger rather than the master. This feeling prompts her to send the ring and seek another visit.
Quick check
Why does Olivia send Malvolio after Viola?
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