Sir Andrew Aguecheek In Shakespeare's Twelfth Night

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Character Analysis
Sir Andrew Aguecheek

Twelfth Night, a comedic play, written by Shakespeare, eloquently develops unique traits, actions, and dialogue for each character to defy roles. Throughout the play, there are clear examples that convey the characteristics and the use of Sir Andrew Aguecheek in the play. He is the clueless, cowardly character who is used by other characters to create a humorous scene and plot, and the vehicle Shakespeare used to prove the stupidity of the royal class. In this

The first point is on the humor Sir Andrew created throughout the play using his naive, gullible and coward personality. In Act 1 scene 3, Sir Andrew says
“What is 'Pourquoi'? Do or not do? I would I had bestowed that timein the tongues that
…show more content…
He is a knight from a royal family, supposedly of being highly educated, however, he does not understand a simple French word. Also, in this quote, Shakespeare briefly but explicitly explains about how Sir Andrew debauched all his time and potential of becoming an intelligent and prudent person. However, he inverted the possibilities he had into learning leisure activities such as fencing, dancing, and bear-baiting. But not only that, he hasn’t mastered any of the skills. From all the evidence above, it proves that Sir Andrew is just a hopeless, naïve character that gets teased by others, and makes humor for the …show more content…
He says, “I knew ‘twas I, for many do call me fool” and that proves that he knows he is stupid because other people call him stupid, not because he realizes how intelligently lacking he is himself.

Furthermore, Sir Andrew is a knight. As a knight he is supposed to have a brave and strong image, leading his companions through harsh times. However, Sir Andrew is the total opposite. In act 3 scene 4, Sir Andrew is very proud and arrogant for his preparation for fighting against Cesario. However, when they fight, both of them are struggling even to pull out their sword and are screaming and yelling in panic. Then when Antonio comes to rescue Cesario, Sir Andrew retreats and disappears. The fight scene proves that Sir Andrew is cowardly, and cannot live up to his words.

And that is the message Shakespeare is trying to deliver through this play especially through Sir Andrew. He is trying to tell that some noblemen are too deep into their haughtiness and arrogance, that they don’t even realize they are naïve, or they are

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