SEBASTIAN: This is the air, that is the glorious sun,
This pearl she gave me, I do feel’t and see’t,
And though ’tis wonder that enwraps me thus,
Yet ’tis not madness. Where’s Antonio then?
I could not find him at the Elephant,
Act IV, Scene 3 — Sebastian's Soliloquy — Twelfth Night
Sebastian reels from a whirlwind encounter with Olivia, who has mistaken him for his twin sister Viola in disguise. He attempts to rationalize his sudden good fortune and the lady's apparent sanity despite her erratic behavior toward him.
Format: Monologue · Genre: Comedy · Source: Twelfth Night · Author: William Shakespeare · Characters: Sebastian
About This Scene
This monologue, Sebastian's Soliloquy from Act IV, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, finds Sebastian in a state of profound bewilderment and burgeoning joy. He has just been lavished with affection and gifts by Olivia, who believes him to be Cesario (his twin sister Viola in disguise). Sebastian attempts to logically process his sudden good fortune, grappling with the apparent irrationality of events while simultaneously embracing the undeniable reality of his new circumstances, all while wondering about his friend Antonio's whereabouts.
Character Analysis
Sebastian is portrayed in this scene as inherently a rational and amiable young man navigating an extraordinary situation. He possesses a charming vulnerability, evident in his efforts to understand the whirlwind of events engulfing him, and a sophistication that allows him to ponder the deeper implications. While initially confused by Olivia's intense affections, he is not dismissive, but rather open to the possibility of love and a future, showcasing a fundamentally good nature and a capacity for romantic entanglement.
Why This Works for Auditions
This particular soliloquy is an excellent choice for auditions as it showcases a wide emotional range within a relatively short piece. An actor can demonstrate vulnerability, confusion, dawning hope, and a touch of intellectual curiosity as Sebastian attempts to reconcile his experiences. Furthermore, it is a Shakespearean piece, allowing actors to display their classical training and command of verse, which is often a requirement for drama school auditions and competitive settings.
Best Suited For
This monologue is ideally suited for male actors aged 18-25 who wish to present as a romantic lead, charming, or vulnerable type. It's particularly strong for those aiming for drama school auditions, where a demonstration of classical text work and nuanced emotional performance is highly valued. The role also suits actors capable of conveying sophistication and an "everyman" quality that resonates with an audience's shared human experience of unexpected turns of fate.
Performance Tips
When approaching this soliloquy, focus on Sebastian's internal struggle to make sense of the unbelievable. Prioritize clarity of thought and allow the wonder of the situation to genuinely affect your delivery, moving from confusion to a hesitant acceptance of his good fortune. Pay close attention to Shakespeare's verse; understanding the rhythm and iambic pentameter will not only assist with memorization but will also reveal nuances in Sebastian's thought process. Remember to ground Sebastian's internal monologue with subtle physical reactions to his environment and the gift he mentions, making his contemplation tangible and engaging for the audience.