A Midsummer’s Night Dream

A Midsummer’s Night Dream Theseus The duke of Athens. Theseus is a hero from Greek mythology—he refers to the fact that he’s Hercules cousin at one point—so his presence signals to the reader that the play takes place in a mythical Greek past. At the... More

A Midsummer’s Night Dream Theseus The duke of Athens. Theseus is a hero from Greek mythology—he refers to the fact that he’s Hercules cousin at one point—so his presence signals to the reader that the play takes place in a mythical Greek past. At the beginning of the play, Theseus has recently returned from conquering the Amazons, a race of warrior women, and is about to marry the conquered Amazon queen, Hippolyta. Because of this impending wedding, the mood of the play is one of holiday festivity, characterized by a heightened sense of erotic expectation and anticipation. Theseus himself projects confidence, authority, and benevolent power. Hippolyta The legendary queen of the Amazons, engaged to marry Theseus. Although Hippolyta is marrying Theseus because he defeated her in combat, she does not act at all like an unwilling bride. Theseus is very courtly in his manner toward Hippolyta, and she is unfailingly deferential toward him. Egeus A respected nobleman in Theseus’s cou Less