Twelfth Night: Between the Middle East, Mediterranean Food, Cold Springs, and God

Twelfth Night and the Influence of the Middle East

Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night is a timeless piece of literature that delves into themes of love, identity, class, and gender. It is a play that has captivated audiences for centuries. While its setting is firmly rooted in Renaissance-era Europe, it is intriguing to consider the influences that may have shaped Shakespeare’s imagination in writing it. One such influence may have been the Middle East.

When Twelfth Night was written, the Middle East was a significant hub for trade, and cultural exchange was thriving. This exchange resulted in a rich tapestry of ideas, philosophies, and artistic expression that may have influenced Shakespeare’s creative vision. The play’s use of cross-dressing and mistaken identity, for example, is a theme rooted in Middle Eastern literature and storytelling.

Mediterranean Food: A Symbolic Element in Twelfth Night

Food is an integral part of many cultures, and it was no different in Renaissance-era Europe. In Twelfth Night, food is symbolic, representing social structure and class. The play’s opening scene, where Orsino orders a “feast” in front of his court, sets the tone for the importance of food and feasting in the play.

Additionally, the Mediterranean diet, which is known for its abundance of fruits, vegetables, and fish, is a theme that is subtly woven into the play. It was believed in Shakespeare’s time that the Mediterranean diet was responsible for the physical beauty, vitality, and overall good health of the region’s people. It is possible that this belief was a factor in Shakespeare’s portrayal of his characters and their physical traits.

Cold Springs and the Divine in Twelfth Night

Divine intervention is a recurring theme in many of Shakespeare’s works, and Twelfth Night is no exception. The play’s setting of Illyria is fictional, but it is believed to be loosely based on the real-life city of Split, Croatia. Split is known for its natural springs, believed to have healing properties since Roman times.

In Twelfth Night, the character of Olivia is mourning the loss of her brother, and it is suggested that the “cold springs,” mentioned throughout the play, symbolize her grief. It is also possible that the springs represent the possibility of divine intervention or healing, mirroring the beliefs surrounding the real-life cold springs of Split.

In conclusion, Twelfth Night is a play that is filled with symbolism, hidden meanings, and references that are at times, subtle but always fascinating. From the influence of the Middle East on the play’s themes to the symbolic role of food and the possible connection to the healing properties of cold springs, Shakespeare’s work is a testament to the breadth and richness of human thought and imagination. Thanks to the Smithsonian Libraries, we can explore these themes and connections in greater depth, adding another layer to the pleasure of reading one of Shakespeare’s most beloved works.