The Use Of Schadenfreude In Shakespeare's Twelfth Night

Giuseppe Villani

Mr. Winn

English 10H

Jan 9, 2023

The use of Schadenfreude in William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” Schadenfreude is a term to define the scientific dark side of human beings. It is defined as “pleasure derived by someone from another person's misfortune” (Oxford). In twelfth night, this psychological circumstance appears in multiple areas where foolery is present, making the whole play an overall better comedic experience. Twelfth Night displays the themes that those who are too serious in every aspect of what they do don’t live a good life, and those who choose to indulge in a nonchalant carefree lifestyle get an enjoyable experience. This includes the prank thrown against Malvolio. Hi Mr. Winn!

Many would argue

Humans all have a dark side that we lock deep down within ourselves. We get pleasure when this dark side comes out, mainly through making fun of others for their own trials and tribulations. We turn tragedy into comedy. This is used heavily to Twelfth nights benefit through the character of Malvolio. As Charles Lamb puts it, “Malvolio is not essentially ludicrous. He becomes comic but by accident.” (On the character of Malvolio). This is part of the comedy of it. Going back to the train wreck analogy, we know that there is nothing that can prevent what is about to happen. Malvolio is head over heels for Olivia, almost to the point where it’s creepy. While being reprimanded by Olivia for randomly abandoning his regular demeanor he says some weird stuff, like “To bed? Ay, sweetheart, and I’ll come to thee.” (3.iv 31-32). Also, while delivering a monologue to Olivia about his love, he proudly exclaims “nothing that can be can come between me and the full prospect of my hopes.” (3.iv 85-86). Frankly, Malvolio is a creepy guy who has no hope left. This whole thing is a train wreck, it’s a tragedy that you don’t want to see, but you can’t help yourself when you find it