JAMB - Literature In English (2001 - No. 23)

From the novel; Twelfth Night
From the novel; Twelfth Night
From the novel; Twelfth Night

Duke:
Be clamorous, and leap all civil bounds,
Rather than make unprofited return.

Duke's statement above to Cesario means that he should

make trouble to see Olivia
jump the fence to see Olivia
shout to be seen and heard by Olivia
fortify himself against any denial to see Olivia

Explanation

In this line, the Duke is urging Cesario (Viola in disguise) to take bold action in his pursuit of Olivia. The phrase "be clamorous" suggests making a loud or forceful approach to capture Olivia's attention, and "leap all civil bounds" implies disregarding social norms or restrictions in order to achieve the goal. Therefore, the Duke is encouraging Cesario to be conspicuous and assertive in a way that will ensure Olivia notices him, even if it means disregarding conventional social boundaries.

Comments (0)

Advertisement