Malvolio

• If you prized my lady’s favor at anything more than contempt, you would not give means for this uncivil rule (2.3.)


  Malvolio is very rigid and conservative, and he does not approve of drunkenness, singing, or joking around.

  He sees this type of behaviour as reflecting poorly on Olivia’s household, and he holds himself and the other servants to a very high standard.

  This quote shows Malvolio behaving like he is better than other characters, and explains why they would dislike him and seek opportunities for revenge.
• I thank my stars, I am happy. (2.5.)


  Malvolio overlooks the fact that it would be highly unlikely for a woman of Olivia’s social position to fall in love with a servant.

  Because he is conceited and full of himself, it’s easy for Malvolio to believe that Olivia is in love with him.

  The line also shows his ambition, and desire to rise to a higher station in life.

  Pathos.
• I will be strange, stout, in yellow stockings and cross-gartered (2.5.)


  Malvolio decides to follow the fake instructions he has been tricked into believing come from Olivia.

  The instructions are set up to make him behave in a bizarre fashion and look ridiculous, but Malvolio is too excited to see that.

  He truly believes he has a chance of pursuing a relationship with Olivia and he is determined to please her.
• Go hang yourselves all! (3.4.)


  Arrogance.

  Can we justify the joke?
• And tell me, in the modesty of honour / Why you have given me such clear lights of favour (5.1.)


  Malvolio confronts Olivia at the end of the play.

  He shows her the letter and asks to know why she told him to do all the strange things it specifies.

  The quote might serve to create sympathy for Malvolio since it shows how much trust he placed in Olivia, and how betrayed he feels by the possibility that she might have been tricking and manipulating him.
• never was a man thus wronged / Good Sir Topas, do not think I am mad. (4.2.) 


  Malvolio's gulling has gone too far.

  He talks to the false priest - played by Feste.

  He views him as a rescuer and confides in him how he pities himself.
• Not yet old enough for a man, nor young enough for a boy


  (1.5.)

  Malvolio's description of Cesario.

  Deception & disguise.
• My masters, are you mad?


  (2.3.)

  Malvolio disrupts the fun of A and T.

  Beginning of the gulling and hate.
• play with my - some rich jewel 


  (2.5.)

  Malvolio's double-entendre.
• I extend my hand to him thus / austere regard of control 


  (2.5.)

  Malvolio's obsession with hierarchy and social mobility.

  Pretentious vocab, educated and full of pride.
• some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them


  (2.5.)

  Triplet.

  Social mobility.

  Sexual imagery.