A Midsummer Night's Dream - Act 3 Study Guide

Vocabulary flashcards covering key plot points, quotes, symbols, and literary devices in Act 3 of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

Purpose of the Mechanicals' Rehearsal

The Mechanicals rehearse the play Pyramus and Thisbe in the woods to perform for Duke Theseus and Hippolyta's wedding day celebration.

Puck's Prank on Nick Bottom

Puck transforms Nick Bottom's head into that of a donkey (an ass) while he is waiting offstage.

Bottom's Reaction to Frightened Colleagues

Bottom sings a song about birds to prove he isn't afraid, which accidentally awakens Titania while she is under the love spell.

Titania's Love Interest (Act 3, Scene 1)

Nick Bottom, whose head has been turned into a donkey's head by Puck.

Oberon's Plan for Demetrius and Helena

After realizing Puck's mistake with the love potion, Oberon orders Puck to fetch Helena and anoints Demetrius's eyes with the potion so he falls in love with Helena when he wakes.

Hermia's Suspicion

Upon discovering Lysander is missing, Hermia believes Demetrius murdered Lysander in his sleep, reasoning Lysander would never willingly abandon her alone in the woods.

Dramatic Irony

A literary device where the audience understands the magic potion is driving the confusion, while the lovers misinterpret it as cruel jokes or betrayal.

Serpent Symbolism (Acts 2 and 3)

Represents treachery, deceit, and betrayal, such as Hermia's nightmare of a snake eating her heart, which foreshadows Lysander abandoning her.

Oberon's Orders to Prevent Dueling

Oberon commands Puck to cast a heavy fog and mimic the men's voices to lead them apart until exhausted, and to apply the herbal antidote to Lysander's eyes so he returns to loving Hermia.