General examples of

Dramatic Techniques
in
Twelfth Night
Dramatic techniques are various tools and methods playwrights use to enhance the theatrical
experience and convey their intended messages. Here's a list of some dramatic techniques
commonly employed in plays, including "Twelfth Night":

Soliloquy: A character speaks thoughts aloud, revealing inner conflicts or emotions to the
audience. For instance, Viola's soliloquy in Act 2, Scene 2, where she contemplates her disguised
identity and her love for Orsino.

Monologue: A longer speech by a single character that may be directed at other characters or the
audience, such as Duke Orsino's monologue at the beginning of the play about the nature of love.

Aside: When a character speaks directly to the audience or to another character, but it's not heard
by the rest of the characters on stage. For example, characters revealing their true feelings or
intentions to the audience without other characters knowing.

Irony: Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that the characters do not,
creating tension or humor. For instance, the audience knowing Viola's true identity while other
characters are unaware.

Foreshadowing: Hints or clues about future events in the play. For example, Viola's mention of
her lost twin brother early in the play foreshadows Sebastian's later appearance.

Puns and Wordplay: Shakespeare is known for wordplay and puns that add humor and depth to
the dialogue, such as the witty exchanges between characters like Feste and Viola.

Stage Directions: Instructions in the script that indicate how characters should move, speak, or
behave on stage, contributing to the overall visual and emotional impact of the play.