Malvolio's self righteous personality is shown through this phrase. He mentions that "some have greatness thrust upon 'em," referring to his view that he is destined for nobility and eminence. He speaks of himself in third person displaying the egoism that he contains. After Malvolio finds the letter that he believes was written by Olivia, he automatically assumes that it is from Olivia and that its true that Olivia wants him to declare his love. This displays the theme of how desire can make someone a fool. Malvolio's egoism as well as his desire for Olivia makes him do all of the foolish things that the letter told him to.

The use of personification is seen in this quote as Antonio describes the sea as a rude and angry thing. Giving the sea these humanly qualities we’re better able to envision the sea as a dangerous thing. This also helps characterize Antonio as brave and hero-like since he saves Sebastian from the dangerous and “angry” sea.