A Midsummer Night's Dream
Author: William Shakespeare
Publication date: First published in 1563
Lisandra's Thoughts:
Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream invites us into a world where folklore and societal norms intertwine. The play is steeped in the folk beliefs surrounding fairies, who were thought to possess magical powers, offer gifts to favored mortals, and hold revels in the night. These creatures, often misunderstood and associated with danger, mirror the experiences of women in the 16th century—especially those who defied societal expectations.
Fairies, gypsies, and witches were marginalized for their free spirits and interests in nature, healing, and the mystical. This legacy of judgment and oppression has endured, influencing how we perceive women who embrace their individuality. In the play, we see this reflected through the character of Hermia, who resists her father’s choice of suitor, Demetrius. Women at the time had little agency over their marital choices, often facing dire consequences for defiance. As Hermia’s father warns, “To you your father should be as a God” (Shakespeare 1.1.4), threatening her with a life devoid of companionship or even death.
In the enchanted forest, Hermia and her lover Lysander escape societal constraints, only to find themselves entangled in a web of magic and mistaken identities. Oberon, the fairy king, instructs Puck to use a love potion that leads to comedic chaos—both Lysander and Demetrius fall in love with Helena, leaving Hermia heartbroken and confused. As Shakespeare reminds us, “The course of true love never did run smooth” (Act 1 Scene 1).
My theory on fairies is that they embodied women who rejected societal norms, choosing instead to find freedom in nature. They might have worn earth tones to blend into their surroundings, symbolizing a desire to escape the constraints of their time. While traditional dress codes limited women's choices, fairies represented a rebellion against those restrictions, embracing their natural selves.
The use of flower juice by Puck can be seen as a metaphor for herbal remedies—an acknowledgment of the healing properties found in nature. Fairies and mystical women have long inspired the fashion industry, embodying a spirit of creativity and independence that resonates today.
Ultimately, A Midsummer Night's Dream is a celebration of love, identity, and the courage to defy societal expectations. It serves as a reminder that true fulfillment comes from embracing one's authentic self, rather than conforming to the norms imposed by others.
Recommendation:
This play is an excellent summer read for those intrigued by the intersection of reality and the mystical. It’s perfect for fairy tale lovers and anyone interested in exploring themes of patriarchy and personal freedom.