Foil

Character Role Analysis

William Shakespeare/Lord Wessex

Lord Wessex and Shakespeare are polar opposites, and one reminds Viola what she likes and dislikes about the other. Shakespeare is passionate. Wessex kisses like a fish. Shakespeare is beautiful. Wessex has made an unfortunate choice in facial hair and ear jewelry. Shakespeare is romantic and wants to please her. Wessex orders Viola around because he can. The film is pretty black and white about these two men—no gray area here.