
A shipwreck leaves the spirited Viola alone on the shores of Illyria, where she quickly resolves to survive by adopting the disguise of a young man named Cesario. In service to the melancholy Duke Orsino, she becomes his trusted messenger, delivering love‑filled verses to the proud Countess Olivia, who has sworn off suitors. The playful banter between Orsino, Cesario, and Olivia creates a tangled web of affection, while Viola's hidden identity fuels both humor and heartfelt moments. Listeners are drawn into a world where music is said to be “the food of love,” setting the tone for a lively, witty exploration of longing and disguise.
As the characters pursue their desires, mischievous servants and a pompous steward add layers of comic intrigue, hinting at further chaos to come. The eloquent language and rapid‑fire repartee showcase Shakespeare’s gift for turning everyday emotions into sparkling drama. Even without knowing the eventual outcomes, the audience can relish the vibrant misunderstandings and the sweet melancholy that echo through each scene. This performance invites you to experience the timeless dance of love, identity, and laughter that begins on Illyria’s coast.
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (110K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2000-07-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1564–1616
A playwright, poet, and actor from Stratford-upon-Avon, he created characters and lines that have stayed alive for more than four centuries. His stories of love, ambition, jealousy, power, and forgiveness still feel startlingly human.
View all books
by E. (Edith) Nesbit, William Shakespeare

by William Shakespeare

by William Shakespeare

by William Shakespeare

by William Shakespeare

by William Shakespeare

by William Shakespeare

by William Shakespeare