Feste

Jesters were an integral part of the courts and households of the nobility during Shakespeare's time, and much before that. They stood out in their distinctive outfits. Their main work was to keep the people who employed them in good humor. Feste, the jester is attached to Olivia's household for much the same type of work.

Feste considers himself "wise enough" (III, 1) to play the fool. For a jester must not only be a shrewd observer of human nature, but he should also be aware of the "mood on whom he jests, the quality of person, and the time" (III, I). He is proud of his profession for he feels it is better to be "a witty fool than a foolish wit" (I, 5). He uses the tools of a jester - wit and humor to perfection. Jesters had the liberty to comment freely and frankly on characters and situations, Feste thus proves Olivia 'a fool' for mourning her brother who is in heaven. With an uncanny insight into human nature, he judges the Duke's mind to be "a very opal" whose "business might be everything" and "intent everywhere" (II, 4).

In spite of his outspoken nature, none of the characters, with the exception of Malvolio, take offence from his jesting. In fact, Olivia defends him when he is criticized by Malvolio and says, "There is no slander in an allowed fool, though he do nothing but rail." Malvolio's scathing attack on Feste angers the jester who actively participates in humiliating Malvolio by acting as Sir Topas the curate, and almost proving to Malvolio that he is indeed mad. Malvolio's anger and frustration when he realizes the true identity of 'Sir Topas' is sweet revenge for Feste, as is the fact that Malvolio has to appeal to him of all the people, for his help. Feste is in some ways independent and goes where he pleases yet at the same time if he does not perform his job well, his position may become tenuous. He easily takes money for his verbal adroitness, which signifies that he relies upon his wits in order to survive. Unlike the other characters who all have a specific social status, Feste moves in a sphere that transcends social class. It is this freedom that causes Malvolio's enmity towards him.

Feste, though a minor character, is an essential part of the play, and enhances the quality and variety of the play with his shrewd observations, his humorous wit and his lively songs.

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