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Twelfth Night · Chapter

Scene III explained

Sebastian and Antonio arrive in Illyria.

What happens

Sebastian and Antonio arrive in Illyria. Antonio explains he followed Sebastian out of love and concern, despite the danger he faces due to a past sea fight against Count Orsino's galleys. He gives Sebastian his purse and arranges to meet at the Elephant inn.

Themes in this chapter

  • Love and Desire

    Antonio's intense desire to follow Sebastian is described as 'more sharp than filed steel,' highlighting a deep emotional attachment.

  • Disguise and Deception

    Antonio must hide his identity in Illyria due to his past conflict with Orsino, setting up a layer of concealment.

Characters to notice

  • Sebastian

    Arrives in Illyria with Antonio, accepts Antonio's purse, and plans to explore the town.

  • Antonio

    Follows Sebastian out of love and concern, reveals his past conflict with Orsino, gives Sebastian his purse, and arranges lodging at the Elephant.

Key passages

  • “I could not stay behind you: my desire, More sharp than filed steel, did spur me forth”

    I couldn't bear to stay behind; my longing, sharper than honed steel, drove me forward.

    Antonio explains his motivation for following Sebastian.

  • “I do not without danger walk these streets: Once, in a sea-fight, 'gainst the count his galleys I did some service”

    It's not safe for me to walk these streets because I once fought against the count's ships in a naval battle.

    Antonio reveals the risk he takes by being in Illyria.

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