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The Complete Works of William Shakespear: Read his plays online

Sparks Notes: Plot Summary, Character analysis, Analysis of Play (Please read the play first!)

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1. Consider the role of the dream world versus the real world. Consider what Hippolyta and Puck say about how dreams shape the play and the real world.

2. Discuss the opposites in the play and how they contrast with each other:

• Helena vs Hermenia
• Fairies vs the Mortals (the Athenians
• Titania and Bottom with Ass' head
• any others that you find

3.Look for symbolism: the sun, the moon, Theseus and Hippolyta; the love potion; the Craftsman's plan

4. Most critics consider Puck to be the protagonist. Do you agree? Why or why not? If not, who then? Is there an antagonist?

5. What simularities do the play have with Romeo and Juliet?

6. Sort out the love relationships. Explain who loves who?

7. Compare the two worlds in the play: the real world with the fantasy world

8. Why is the play NOT a fairytale. (Review the elements of fairytale we discussed at the beginning of the semester.

Wednesday: Discussion Groups Monday April 14 present answers