A Midsummer Night's Dream Research Paper

Oftentimes in literature, using magic is portrayed in a way that results in conflict. In the play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shakespeare uses magic to create dissension between the characters. For instance, magic was used in a love spell, which later strained the relationship between Lysander and Hermia, created tension within Helena’s and Hermia’s friendship, and catalyzed Titania’s love for Bottom. Initially, Lysander and Hermia both love each other, but Lysander is put under a magical spell which causes him to fall in love with Helena. Because of this, Hermia and Lysander begin to feud and tarnish their relationship. Secondly, the friendship between Hermia and Helena grows incompatible due to the magic influencing Lysander’s actions. Lastly, Bottom’s head is

Hermia assumingly says, “You thief of love”. What, have you come by night? And stole my love's heart from him?” (3.2.284-285). In the quote, Shakespeare reveals the issues within Helena and Hermia's friendship. Hermia thinks that Helena is responsible for Lysander’s actions. Because of this, Hermia and Helena blame each other and begin to believe that they’re playing cruel jokes. Helena vocalizes to Hermia, “I will not trust you, I, Nor longer stay in your trust company” (3.2.341-342). We can infer that Helena feels this way because of the claims Hermia made about her previously. In brief, Helena and Hermia struggle with conflict because of the disturbance magic causes. Lastly, Titania is put under a love spell to fall in love with Bottom, who is a donkey at this point in the story. Oberon sends Puck, his servant fairy, to cast a love spell on Titania to fall in love with Bottom. Puck begins,“ When thou wak’st, it is thy dear. Wake when some vile thing is near (2.2.39-40). Earlier in the story, Oberon and Titania had an argument regarding the changeling