Critically acclaimed as one of Shakespeare's most complex and intriguing
plays, Twelfth Night is a classic romantic comedy of mistaken
identities. In recent years it has returned to the centre of critical
debate surrounding gender and sexuality. The Introduction explores the
multiple factors that make up the play's rich textual, theatrical,
critical and cultural history. Keir Elam surveys the play's production
and reception, emphasising the role of the spectator both within the
comedy and the playhouse.