This question is based on William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. DUKE: … Thou know'st no less but all; I have…

Analyze the question

The lines come from Twelfth Night, Act 1, Scene 4, where Duke Orsino speaks to Viola (disguised as Cesario). The question asks what exactly he has "unclasped."

Explain the concept

"Unclasp" means to open something fastened, like the clasp of a book. Shakespeare uses a metaphor here: the Duke's soul is compared to a book with a clasp. Opening the clasp lets someone read what is inside.

Step-by-step solution

1. The full line is: "I have unclasped to thee the book even of my secret soul."
2. The "book" is the metaphor, and what it stands for is "my secret soul."
3. By unclasping it, Orsino means he has revealed his innermost feelings and secrets to Cesario. These are mostly his love for Olivia, but the line itself names his secret soul, not a particular relationship.
4. Check the options: • A and D mention a "relationship with Olivia." This is too narrow, and Orsino has no real relationship with Olivia anyway, since she keeps rejecting him. • C mentions Viola. Orsino does not know he is speaking to Viola, because she is disguised, and there is no relationship with her yet. • B, "The secret of his soul," matches the text directly.

Answer: The Duke has opened up his innermost, secret feelings, so the correct option is B.

Exam tip

In JAMB Literature questions that quote a line, the answer is often in the quote itself. Look for the words that restate the phrase, here "secret soul," and avoid options that add details the quote does not mention. Also remember that a metaphor (book = soul) is a common way Shakespeare expresses openness and confidence between characters.