Though Feste is repeatedly called a “fool” in the play, he is arguably one of the wisest and most

thoughtful characters in Twelfth Night. When threatened with hanging by Maria, Feste replies simply
that “he that is well hanged in this / world needs to fear no colors” (4-5). His statement reflects a
paradoxically cheerful and cynical attitude towards the world; he does not fear death and thus, is able to
remain seemingly carefree and happy, yet his carefreeness is founded in a distinctly cynical perception
that the world is full of deception and that this deception is both pervasive and inescapable except
through disregard/apathy. Likewise, Feste remarks that “God give them wisdom that have it, and / those
that are fools, let them use their talents” (13-14). Once again, his remark can be construed in two
different ways. While Feste is likely to be joking that fools should utilize their talents and become even
more foolish, his remark can also be interpreted to mean that those who are not as naturally
talented/intelligent as others should likewise strive to use what assets they possess to seek a better life.
Rather than being an ignorant fool, Feste is more keenly aware of life’s realities and hardships than all
the other characters in the play who are actively engaged in ridiculous ploys. This is perhaps due to
Feste’s lower social class, being a common man rather than a member of the nobility (or at least a rather
respected servant to a lady/lord). Even Antonio who is a captain is a degree elevated compared to Feste
who is now a court jester (though previously, he was likely to be even lower in status). Feste’s wisdom in
contrast to the ridiculousness of the nobility may serve as a criticism of the nobility as well as a
depressing reflection on the nature of comedy. While comedy is used by the common man to overcome
the tragic nature of his earthly existence, the life of nobility is shown to be in itself a comedy.

compared to the other members of nobility

Perhaps also due to his lower social class than the other characters in the play, and