# Scene I explained — Twelfth Night

> Chapter companion for Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Sebastian parts from Antonio on the sea-coast, revealing his identity and his sister Viola's drowning. Despite Antonio's offer to accompany him, Sebastian insists on traveling alone to Orsino's court. Antonio, undeterred by the danger of enemies there, resolves to follow out of love.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Desire

Antonio's intense devotion to Sebastian, risking danger for his company, exemplifies a deep, almost romantic love.

### Mourning and Melancholy

Sebastian grieves for his drowned sister, and his 'stars shine darkly' over him, setting a tone of loss and sorrow.

## Character check-ins

### Sebastian

Reveals his true name and his sister's drowning; insists on traveling alone to Orsino's court.

### Antonio

Pleading to accompany Sebastian; expresses deep affection and decides to follow despite having enemies in Orsino's court.

## Key lines

> My stars shine darkly over me: the malignancy of my fate might perhaps distemper yours; therefore I shall crave of you your leave that I may bear my evils alone

My luck is bad, and I don't want to bring you trouble, so please let me face my problems alone.

_Sebastian expresses his belief that his misfortune might harm Antonio if they stay together._

> I am bound to the Count Orsino’s court

I am heading to Duke Orsino's court.

_Sebastian reveals his destination, which will later lead to mistaken identity with Viola._

> But, come what may, I do adore thee so, That danger shall seem sport, and I will go.

No matter what happens, I love you so much that danger will feel like fun, and I will follow you.

_Antonio declares his unwavering devotion to Sebastian, willing to face any risk._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twelfth_night_se/chapters/act-ii-scene-i
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twelfth_night_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twelfth_night_se/chapters