Act 1 Scene 1

 Discuss the following passage from Act 1 scene 1, exploring Shakespeare’s use of language and its dramatic effects. 

Maria and Feste are talking in pro's reinforcing their lack of importance regarding the plot. Marea is shown to be telling Feste what to do highlighting her importance and influence over other characters. When Marea is telling Feste what she wants him to do she uses imperatives such as "put on this gown", "make him believe" and "do it quickly". Marea is shown to be of high influence to other characters despite here gender, this would be uncommon as men would be seen as more powerful than women. Shakespeare portrays women as equal to men and shows their characters to be powerful. This could be because Shakespear is trying to appeal to queen Elizebeth who was the monarchy of England at the time of when this play was made. While Feste talks Shakespeare has added an extensive amount of exclamation marks to show authority and that Feste is in charge of this situation.