Act summaries

Indhold

Act 1
- Scene 1
- Scene 2
Act 2
- Scene 1
- Scene 2
Act 3
- Scene 1
- Scene 2
Act 4
- Scene 1
- Scene 2
Act 5
- Scene 1

Act 1

Scene 1

William Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer Night’s Dream begins with the ruler of Athens, Theseus, reminding his soon-to-be wife, Hippolyta, that their wedding will take place in four days. Even though he defeated Hippolyta in battle, he wants to make their marriage a happy occasion, so he orders a big celebration.

A nobleman, Egeus, arrives to complain to Theseus that his daughter, Hermia, does not obey him. Egeus wants Hermia to marry a gentleman named Demetrius, however she is in love with another man called Lysander. Theseus advises Hermia to follow her father’s wishes, otherwise she will be punished, either by death or isolation from society.

Lysander argues that his wealth and status is similar to Demetrius’. Furthermore, he tells Theseus that Demetrius previously seduced a woman named Helena, whom he then abandoned for Hermia. Theseus admits to knowing about this but insists that Hermia must obey her father. Theseus gives Hermia time to think about her decision until the date of his own wedding to Hippolyta.

Lysander and Hermia decide to run away from Athens and get married in secret. They make plans to meet in the woods the following night. Helena arrives and asks Hermia for advice on how to make Demetrius fall in love with her. Hermia tells Helena not to wo...