Hyperbole And Allusion In Shakespeare's 'Willow Cabin'

323 Words2 Pages
Hyperbole and allusion contribute to the tone and meaning because it reveals the core of the love triangle which allows Viola to deliver her message while also expressing her love for Orsino. Allusion plays a vital role in the meaning behind this passage. The use of allusion in Shakespeare’s work allows him to create a double meaning in passages like the “Willow Cabin” speech. Here, the double meaning lies in Shakespeare’s use of allusion in order to conceal Viola’s declaration of love for the Count as a declaration of love for Olivia. Writing “loyal cantons of contemned love” is Viola’s way of saying that she will write songs of loyalty expressing her unrequited love (273). This is essential to understanding the meaning behind the passage