Discussion about this post

User's avatar
Steven B. Levy's avatar

I think directors too often wave away - and shove offstage - a character who has no more lines in a scene. While the First Folio does sometimes skimp on exits (and some entrances), why not assume to begin that the players may remain for a reason? This scene is a perfect example, as is the finale of Twelfth Night, where often Antonio is ushered offstage well before the conclusion. Yet consider: Sebastian and Olivia pair off (leaving Antonio in the lurch), as do Orsino and Olivia, and Toby and Maria, while two of those fated to move on alone leave in anger (Andrew and Malvolio, with perhaps the greatest exit line that doesn't require a bear). Which should leave not just Feste - very much a loner - but Antonio as well, whose love, carnal or not, remains unrequited, and who stands mute witness to the three marriages and three other disappointments.

Expand full comment
1 more comment...

No posts