Viola, shipwrecked with her twin brother Sebastian, assumes that Sebastian is dead and attempts to find work in Illyria disguised as a boy. She falls for Orsino, duke of Illyria, though he is in love with Olivia. Meanwhile, Viola helps woo Olivia for Orsino, but Olivia falls for “Sebastian” instead. As this romantic entanglement develops, it emerges that Sebastian has survived and is in the city. Misunderstandings ensue as the result of Viola's disguise and her lookalike brother's return from the dead. Everyone ends up partnered off, but not before the bungling lovers' shenanigans reach a fever pitch.
Here’s a short character list for Twelfth Night:
Viola/Cesario – The play’s protagonist. After surviving a shipwreck, she disguises herself as a boy named Cesario to work for Duke Orsino. She falls in love with Orsino while helping him court Olivia.
Sebastian – Viola’s twin brother, who also survives the shipwreck. He is mistaken for Cesario when he arrives in Illyria, leading to confusion.
Duke Orsino – The Duke of Illyria, who is in love with Olivia. He becomes fond of Cesario (not knowing she is Viola in disguise).
Olivia – A wealthy countess in mourning for her brother. She falls in love with Cesario (Viola in disguise) after refusing Orsino’s love.
Malvolio – Olivia’s pompous steward. He is tricked into believing Olivia loves him, leading to his humiliation.
Sir Toby Belch – Olivia’s uncle, who loves drinking and making mischief. He encourages Sir Andrew to court Olivia.
Maria – Olivia’s clever lady-in-waiting, who helps trick Malvolio.
Sir Andrew Aguecheek – A foolish knight trying to woo Olivia, though he is encouraged mostly by Sir Toby.
Feste – Olivia’s witty and humorous fool, who entertains the other characters with jokes and songs.
Antonio – A sea captain who rescues Sebastian and becomes his friend.
These characters create a complex web of mistaken identities, love triangles, and comedic situations.
