Antonio In Twelfth Night

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Many factors form success. It is defined by happiness, life achievements and importance within society. In the play Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare, characterization is a principal element of the literature. The audience is introduced to Antonio, a sea captain who saved Sebastian, brother of Viola, then followed him to Illyria, regardless of being a wanted person in the country. Throughout the comedy, he presents many valuable attributes, however, does not receive a happy ending. Despite his failure to gain success in the Elizabethan Era society, his personality better suits the lifestyle and values of the modern world. Antonio is a heartfelt, ardent and daring character. For these reasons, he will be successful in the 21st century because …show more content…
We can define him as a fearless person based on his decision to fight against Sir Andrew for Cesario, who he had mistaken for Sebastian: “Put up your sword. If this young gentleman / Have done offence, I take the fault on me. / If you offend him, I for him defy you.” (Shakespeare 3.4. 301-299). Antonio’s confident tone characterized by the author’s diction and syntax, where the sentence structure is declarative, conveys that he is very assertive. This mindset enables him to try new experiences while living fully and without regret. Also, with his boldness, he could be a trendsetter. We know he is daring by him deciding to follow Sebastian to Illyria despite the possible consequences and loving a person of the same sex: “But, come what may, I do adore thee so, / That danger shall seem sport, and I will go.” (2.1. 43-44). The carefree diction in this quotation and the understating of potential dangers being like a sport emphasizes Antonio’s confidence. In Twelfth Night, when people did not conform to social norms, like Antonio who chose to love another man, they are punished. But in the modern day, more and more changes are happening, for instance, the altering view of homosexual relationships. Antonio has the personality to be a strong influence on his society and change their views for the better. Risks must be taken to live successfully, which Antonio is not afraid to

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