One of Shakespeare's most famous plays, Twelfth Night, begins with the iconic line, "If music be the food of love, play on." This opening line sets the tone for the entire play, which is filled with themes of love, deception, and mistaken identity.

In Twelfth Night, the character Orsino utters these words as he pines for the love of the beautiful Olivia. The play follows the story of Viola, who disguises herself as a man named Cesario in order to serve Orsino. However, Viola finds herself falling in love with Orsino, while Olivia falls in love with Cesario, not realizing that he is actually a woman.

Throughout the play, Shakespeare explores the nature of love and the ways in which it can be both fulfilling and destructive. The characters in Twelfth Night grapple with their own desires and the complexities of romantic relationships, leading to a series of mistaken identities and hilarious misunderstandings.

Twelfth Night is considered one of Shakespeare's comedies, known for its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and intricate plot twists. The play has been performed countless times over the centuries and continues to be a favorite among audiences and critics alike.

For more information on Twelfth Night and other works by William Shakespeare, you can visit the official website of the Folger Shakespeare Library at www.folger.edu. The Folger Shakespeare Library is home to the world's largest collection of Shakespeare materials, including rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts.

Whether you are a longtime fan of Shakespeare or new to his works, Twelfth Night is a must-read play that showcases the timeless themes and enduring appeal of the Bard's writing. So, if you're ready to dive into a world of love, laughter, and deception, pick up a copy of Twelfth Night and let the music of Shakespeare's words play on.

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