A Midsummer Night's Dream, Acts 5, Grades 9-10

Act 5 of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' serves as the denouement of the play, where the characters reflect on their experiences and the play within a play is performed. This act brings a resolution to the various plot lines and reinforces the themes of love, illusion, and reality. As you read, consider how the play within a play mirrors the main plot and what Shakespeare might be saying about the nature of art and life.

How does Theseus react to the story of the night spent in the forest as told by the lovers? What does his reaction suggest about his character?

Discuss the significance of the play performed by the craftsmen. How does it reflect on the main events of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'?

Analyze the character of Puck in his final monologue. What role does he play in the resolution of the play's themes?

Examine the themes of illusion and reality in Act 5. How do the events of this act resolve or complicate these themes?

Discuss the ending of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.' Do you think the resolution is satisfactory? Why or why not?