Viola- Then think you right. I am not what I am.
Olivia- I would you were as I would have you be. (III.i.148-9)
In this quote, Viola is asked what she thinks of Olivia. When she gives her a critical answer to the question, Olivia begins to lash out at Viola, telling her exactly what Viola told her. This interaction ends with Olivia professing her love for Cesario, even though Viola won’t return those feelings. This quote is the start of a confession by Olivia. It’s a huge part of the play because it’s the first time she professes her love for Viola, but Viola doesn’t care. Olivia pleads with Cesario to try to fall in love with her, but Viola won’t have any of it at the time because she is still in love with Orsino and she’s a woman, not a man. I think that Olivia and Viola will somehow make it work because two of the three people in the love triangle have to end up together, and I think it’s going to be Olivia and Viola.
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ReplyDeleteI disagree that Viola doesn't care how Olivia feels. She just is unable to do anything about it. She must feel some sympathy, she is in the same boat as Olivia, after all.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Stephanie in that I'm sure Viola does care very much. In fact, she can probably relate seeing as how she has an immense love for Orsino that cannot be returned because Orsino thinks she's a man. I believe Viola is very sympathetic and understanding towards the way Olivia feels. She may write Olivia off a bit but I think that is only because she wants to creat space between the two of them so that perhaps Olivia won't like her as much.
ReplyDeleteI think Olivia's response to this quote should resonate as a theme throughout the play. Essentially, she is suggesting that she wants Viola to act as she wants, which is reflective of all of the main characters selfish desires throughout the play. Parth, you have made strong analysis in reference tot he plot but you are missing an essential theme here.
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