1. Malvolio's Gullibility: Malvolio is portrayed as a pompous and self-important steward of Olivia's household. When Sir Andrew Aguecheek and Sir Toby Belch play a prank on him, he falls for their forged letter, believing Olivia is in love with him. The audience finds humor in his gullibility and his eagerness to believe in the affection that is not there.
2. Malvolio's Misplaced Arrogance: Throughout the play, Malvolio displays a sense of superiority over others, especially Sir Toby and Sir Andrew. He often lectures them on their behavior and moral shortcomings. However, his moralizing speeches, combined with his obliviousness to the trick being played on him, make him a subject of ridicule and laughter.
3. Physical Humor: Shakespeare employs physical comedy to make Malvolio a laughingstock. When the prank is revealed, he is presented with yellow stockings and a silly smile, turning his dignified persona into a buffoonish figure. His transformation becomes a source of amusement for the audience.
4. Social Irony: Malvolio's social position as a steward makes his downfall humorously ironic. Typically, stewards are expected to maintain order and decorum, but Malvolio's gullibility and foolish behavior subvert this expectation, making him a comical character.
5. Audience Perspective: The audience is aware of the prank and the deception that Malvolio is subjected to. This shared knowledge creates a sense of complicity between the audience and the other characters, further enhancing the comedic effect of Malvolio's actions.
Overall, Malvolio's gullibility, misplaced arrogance, physical humor, social irony, and the audience's perspective work together to make him a funny character that evokes laughter and amusement throughout the play.