Twelfth Night: Orsino

This 33-slide lesson explores Orsino in Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night’.

With academic scrutiny, the lesson analyses one of Shakespeare’s key characters, beginning with an overview of his key lines, attributes, and role in the plot. This then leads to interesting contextual points which might illuminate Orsino’s character, and some structural analysis of his role in the play.

Orsino’s key lines and moments are explored, including his notable allusion to the myth of Diana and Actaeon. Close analysis of language is included to aid students’ annotations. Interesting viewpoints from a range of critics, directors, and actors are discussed, and we look at how Orsino has been presented in a range of theatrical productions.

Crucially, we also explore how Orsino’s character relates to the key themes of the play and is central to the comedy of ‘Twelfth Night’. The Carnivalesque atmosphere of the play is analysed in light of Orsino’s character, with close focus on themes including narcissism, masculinity, and desire.

Questions, discussion points, and essay questions are featured throughout. Students are encouraged to consider Orsino’s character at a high level, so this lesson would be ideal for students aged 16+.

PowerPoint saved as both an editable PowerPoint and PDF (to retain aesthetic choices).