TWELFTH NIGHT Meaning and
Definition
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Twelfth Night, also known as Twelfth Night of Christmas or Epiphany Eve, is a Christian holiday celebrated on January 5th or 6th, depending on the Christian denomination or country. It marks the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas and is observed with various traditions and customs.
In addition to being a holiday, Twelfth Night is also the title of a renowned comedy play written by William Shakespeare. Believed to have been written around 1601 and first performed in 1602, the play centers around themes of love, mistaken identity, and mischievous pranks. Set in Illyria, it follows the story of Viola, who disguises herself as a man named Cesario after surviving a shipwreck, and becomes entangled in a complex love triangle.
The play's title, Twelfth Night, references the tradition of Twelfth Night celebrations where roles are reversed, and social norms are temporarily upended. These festivities often involve costumes, masquerades, and the appointment of a Lord of Misrule. Similarly, the play explores themes of mistaken identity and role reversal, as characters navigate their romantic entanglements in a world of disguise and deception.
The popularity of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night persists today, with regular performances and adaptations across the globe. It is celebrated as a classic comedy, highlighting the Bard's wit, humor, and his ability to intricately unravel complicated love plots while intertwining them with societal commentary.
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The evening of the Epiphany, a church festival.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TWELFTH NIGHT
- rwelfth night
- fwelfth night
- gwelfth night
- ywelfth night
- 6welfth night
- 5welfth night
- tqelfth night
- taelfth night
- tselfth night
- teelfth night
- t3elfth night
- t2elfth night
- twwlfth night
- twslfth night
- twdlfth night
- twrlfth night
- tw4lfth night
- tw3lfth night
- twekfth night
- twepfth night
Etymology of TWELFTH NIGHT
The word "Twelfth Night" has its etymology rooted in the Christian festival of Epiphany, which is celebrated on January 6th. Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Magi or the Three Wise Men to baby Jesus.
"Twelfth Night" derives its name from the fact that it falls on the twelfth night after Christmas Day. In medieval and Renaissance England, Twelfth Night was a festive occasion that marked the end of the Christmas season. It was traditionally celebrated with feasting, music, and theatrical performances.
Shakespeare's play "Twelfth Night", written in the early 1600s, takes its title from this holiday. The play is believed to have been performed on the twelfth night of Christmas festivities.
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