Human Nature In Twelfth Night

Feste may appear to be the average fool used for comic relief; however, looking into this further one can see he is a deep character with strong ideologies. William Shakespeare’s famous play Twelfth Night illustrates several different themes. One of the most important themes is human nature, which can be unveiled and interpreted by Feste. Feste expresses his understanding that we are what we do through wit and intelligence.
Evidently, Feste believes that the past can only be patched and not completely mended, solely resulting in less sin. A man, for example, commits a crime then later on wants to redeem himself by contributing to charity; the man has still committed a crime, but is now also a better person. The past doesn’t simply balance out, it is merely patched. In addition this is furthered by Feste when talking to Olivia. For example: “Virtue that transgresses is but patched with sin, and sin that amends is but patched with virtue.” One cannot rewrite the past nor can one change who they are based on the present however; both may add up to create an identity.
While talking to Viola, evidence can be found that helps solidify his understanding that people are what they do. Feste clarifies to Viola that just because a "king lies by a beggar if a beggar dwell near him," doesn't mean that the king is associated with being a beggar, he is instead a just a king near a beggar. With this in mind it is shown that Feste understands that oneself is the only being that is truly responsible for their personal identity. However, the people who one surrounds themselves with can also create a false image that doesn't necessarily express an authentic