Character Analysis and Plot Summary of A Midsummer Night's Dream

Key Concepts and Characters in A Midsummer Night's Dream

Essential Vocabulary and Definitions

• Defiant: Showing aggression or independence by refusing to obey someone.
• Faines: Used to emphasize that if someone does not know something, you also do not know it.
• Trick: An action intended to deceive someone.
• Out of the Woods: If something or someone is not out of the woods yet, they are still having difficulties or problems.
• Quarrel: An angry argument between two or more friends or family members.

Major Character Profiles

Nick Bottom (The Weaver)

Bottom is a weaver and one of the Athenian craftsmen referred to as "the Mechanicals." Puck transforms his head into that of a donkey, leading to his brief affair with Titania. In his free time, he is an actor who performs for the wedding of Theseus.

Puck (Robin Goodfellow)

Puck is a clever, mischievous elf. His master is Oberon, and he diligently carries out all of Oberon's orders.

Oberon (King of the Fairies)

Oberon is the King of the Fairies, the master of Puck, and the husband of Titania. He resides in the woods.

Helena

Helena is a young woman desperately in love with Demetrius. She is extremely unsure of herself, worrying about her appearance and believing herself to be unattractive.

Analyzing the Plot: Key Questions and Answers

Who Experiences the Dream?

In my opinion, the author, William Shakespeare, had the dream. It could also represent a real dream experienced by an actor. Perhaps Shakespeare dreamt the story when he was in love and conceived of the magic needed to achieve his desires. He may have set the work in a distant time to conceal its personal origins.

Why is Egeus Angry?

Egeus is angry with his daughter, Hermia, because he wants her to marry Demetrius. She refuses because she is in love with Lysander.

What Happens if Hermia Disobeys Egeus?

She will be forced into a convent or face death.

What are Lysander and Hermia's Plans?

They plan to escape to Lysander's aunt's house and marry there because they are in love.

Why is Oberon Angry with Titania?

He is angry with Titania because she refuses to give him the Indian changeling boy.

Why Do Oberon and Titania Argue?

They are constantly arguing, and Oberon believes Titania does not love him, leading to their separation and rejection of each other.

Who are Pyramus and Thisbe?

Pyramus and Thisbe are two legendary lovers from Greek and Roman mythology.

Why Does Helena Become Angry?

Helena becomes angry because she believes the sudden declarations of love are a cruel joke, orchestrated by Hermia.