The story begins in Illyria, where Duke Orsino pines for Lady Olivia, who is mourning her brother’s death and refuses his advances. Meanwhile, Viola, shipwrecked and separated from her twin brother Sebastian, disguises herself as a man named Cesario to serve Orsino. Viola quickly gains Orsino’s favor and is sent to woo Olivia on his behalf. However, Olivia falls for Cesario, unaware of Viola’s true identity. The subplot introduces Olivia’s household, where her uncle Sir Toby Belch schemes with Sir Andrew Aguecheek and the servant Maria, while mocking the puritanical steward Malvolio. As relationships and deceptions build, Viola struggles with her growing love for Orsino, setting the stage for romantic misunderstandings.

Dramatis Personæ
ACT I
Scene I. An Apartment in the Duke’s Palace.
Scene II. The sea-coast.
Scene III. A Room in Olivia’s House.
Scene IV. A Room in the Duke’s Palace.
Scene V. A Room in Olivia’s House.
ACT II
Scene I. The sea-coast.
Scene II. A street.
Scene III. A Room in Olivia’s House.
Scene IV. A Room in the Duke’s Palace.
Scene V. Olivia’s garden.