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A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare: About Author and Text

About William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (baptized April 26, 1564, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England—died April 23, 1616, Stratford-upon-Avon) was a poet, dramatist, and actor often called the English national poet. He is considered by many to be the greatest dramatist of all time.

Shakespeare occupies a position unique in world literature. Other poets, such as Homer and Dante, and novelists, such as Leo Tolstoy and Charles Dickens, have transcended national barriers, but no writer’s living reputation can compare to that of Shakespeare, whose plays, written in the late 16th and early 17th centuries for a small repertory theatre, are now performed and read more often and in more countries than ever before. The prophecy of his great contemporary, the poet and dramatist Ben Jonson, that Shakespeare “was not of an age, but for all time,” has been fulfilled.

Sourced from Britannica.

About A Midsummer Night's Dream

A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare, likely written around 1595-1596, is a delightful comedy that weaves together the intersecting stories of four young lovers, a group of amateur actors, and a mischievous group of fairies. Set in an enchanted forest near Athens, the play explores themes of love, illusion, and the unpredictable nature of desire. The central plot follows the romantic entanglements of Hermia, Lysander, Helena, and Demetrius, while the comedic subplot involves the misadventures of a group of amateur actors led by the bumbling Nick Bottom. Meanwhile, Oberon and Puck, the fairy king and his mischievous servant, add a magical element to the whimsical narrative.

Among Shakespeare’s other notable works, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is celebrated for its light-hearted and fantastical nature. It is often categorized as one of Shakespeare’s comedies, showcasing his mastery in blending humor, romance, and enchantment. The play’s exploration of the complexities of love and its use of magical elements contribute to its enduring popularity.

Sourced from SparkNotes.

Character Map

Sourced from Course Hero.