Topic > Disguise Theme in Twelfth Night - 1034

Also, while it is not specified why he intends to create this alternate appearance of Malvolio, it is strongly suggested through his imperative tone and dialogue that his intentions are primarily to humiliate the selfish Malvolio. Consequently, due to his immense ego, instead of questioning the forged letter on behalf of Olivia, by the deceitful Maria, Malvolio allows himself to be fooled into the outrageous costume with the hope of love. Therefore, since this letter specifically requests Malvolio to change his appearance and personality, it can be interpreted as a form of disguise, which consequently allows Maria to 'Observe him, for the sake of mockery'. Shakespeare concludes that the minority of characters in Twelfth Night seek pleasure in the form of satire and tension when referring to another character's flawed, naive, or foolish behavior.