A Midsummer Night's Dream, Acts 3, Grades 9-10

Act 3 of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' brings the characters' adventures in the enchanted forest to a climax, with mistaken identities and unrequited loves creating chaos. As you read, focus on how the characters react to the situations they find themselves in and how these reactions drive the plot forward. Pay particular attention to the role of magic in complicating or resolving conflicts.

How does Bottom react to his transformation, and how do the other craftsmen respond to it?

Explain the misunderstanding between Hermia and Demetrius in this act. How does it affect their relationship?

Analyze the role of Puck in Act 3. How does his mischief contribute to the central conflicts of the play?

Discuss how the rehearsal of the craftsmen's play within the play comments on the nature of performance and illusion. What might Shakespeare be suggesting about theater?

Examine the interactions between Titania and Bottom. What do these interactions reveal about the power dynamics at play and the theme of love?