"Twelfth Night" is believed to be titled after the twelfth night of Christmas. According to tradition, the festival of the twelfth night of Christmas (the Epiphany) was celebrated by inverting and turning things upside-down. Set the context for the play with an activity that reinforces the chaotic, extraordinary atmosphere. Ask students to research twelfth night traditions and have each one present a tradition to the class.
"Twelfth Night" is a play about illusion and deception. The protagonist disguises herself as a man, but then goes mad because her deceit ultimately confuses even her. For a pre-reading activity, have students paint a mask, such as one that would be worn to a masquerade ball. Invite each student to share his mask with the group and to explain the disguise that the mask helps the wearer to achieve. Afterward, challenge students to reflect on the themes of disguise, illusion and madness, and discuss how these themes may unfold and relate to one another in Shakespeare's play.
Many critics believe Shakespeare's inspiration for "Twelfth Night" came both from a 1530s Italian play titled "Gl'Ingannati" and a 1581 story titled "Appolonius and Silla." Both of these narratives feature twins who are mistaken for each other, reinforcing the theme of disguised identity. To prepare students for "Twelfth Night," read aloud one (or parts) of one of these narratives. If reading "GI'Ingannati," assign roles for different students to read in character. Afterward, discuss the narrative and its treatment of themes related to disguise and illusion.
The play has several famous scenes, speeches and soliloquies. For a fun pre-reading activity, divide students into groups and assign each group a famous scene. Ask students to present the scene silently, acting it out with props and motions, but no words. This activity forces students to creatively interpret scenes to convey the scene's action and themes. It also introduces students to different scenes, making a first reading more interesting.