Question

Allusion: The mention of Phoebe is an allusion to the goddess Diana, who is associated with the moon in Roman mythology. By invoking this image, the speaker draws a parallel between the moon’s reflection and Olivia’s beauty, suggesting a celestial and unattainable quality.Personification: By giving the moon, referred to as Phoebe, a "silver visage" and suggesting that it can "behold" itself in the water, Shakespeare adds a layer of romanticism and ethereal beauty to the scene. This personification elevates Olivia’s beauty to something otherworldly and divine, reflecting Orsino's idealization of her. The watery glass symbolizes the elusive and reflective nature of beauty and desire, reinforcing the themes of love and longing that permeate the play. rephrase like a 8th grader and shorten

Answer 1

When Shakespeare mentions Phoebe in the poem, it's like comparing Olivia's beauty to the goddess Diana. The moon is described as having a "silver face" and being able to see itself in the water, giving it a romantic and heavenly quality. Olivia's beauty is portrayed as something unattainable and divine, reflecting Orsino's admiration for her. The watery reflection represents the elusive nature of beauty and desire, highlighting the theme of love and longing in the play.