What is the primary source of the 'block' or conflict that initiates the action in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Egeus demands Hermia wed Demetrius against her will
The play begins with a legal conflict in which Egeus invokes the 'ancient privilege of Athens' to force his daughter into an arranged marriage. This drives the four lovers to flee into the woods, where the fairy intervention of Oberon and Puck occurs.
Keep practicing
More Shakespearean Comedies questions
- In 'The Merchant of Venice,' which character famously delivers the 'quality of mercy' speech during the trial scene?
- Which Shakespearean comedy features the 'Merry War' of wits between Beatrice and Benedick?
- In 'As You Like It,' what is the name of the forest where the exiled Duke Senior lives and where the protagonists seek refuge?
- What is the central plot device used in 'The Comedy of Errors' to generate humor and confusion?
- Which character in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' has their head transformed into that of an ass by Puck?
- In 'Much Ado About Nothing,' who is the villain that orchestrates the shaming of Hero at her wedding?