Twelfth Night: AS & A2 York Notes

Comment

AO1: Some very good expression spoiled by occasional vague or sloppy turns of phrase. The argument is well-made and clear, if a little undeveloped in places. The question is largely addressed but an initial exploration of the nature of 'true' love and what that means, before exploring whether it can be said to dominate, would have helped.

AO2: Some useful and pertinent quotations, generally embedded fluently and one or two references to linguistic devices and their effects, although greater exploration of the 'hart' motif might have helped the argument. The candidate touches on ideas about contrasting language styles, as in the reference to Viola's first lines, but this is a little basic.

AO3: Some consideration of alternative interpretations or readings, but these relate more to the nature of Orsino's 'self-love' rather than critiquing the idea of 'self-love' itself. Critics must be referenced by name, if referred to.

AO4: Little in the way of contextual reference. Whether in exploring the conventions of romantic love poetry and what might be seen as 'truthful' or in understanding the impact role and gender reversals would have had on an audience's reading of 'love', both now and in Shakespeare's day, something in this area is required.