Shakespeare Today: A Midsummer Night's Dream - Act 1 Summary

The video provides a summary of Act 1 of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. It begins with Theseus and Hippolyta planning their wedding. Egeus demands his daughter Hermia marry Demetrius, but she loves Lysander. Faced with harsh consequences, Hermia and Lysander plan to flee. Helena, in love with Demetrius, decides to inform him of Hermia's plan, hoping to gain his affection. Meanwhile, a group of tradesmen, the Mechanicals, prepare a play for the wedding. The video concludes with a preview of Act 2.

What are the main reasons for Theseus and Hippolyta's excitement in the beginning of the act?

How does Egeus react to Hermia's choice of Lysander over Demetrius?

What options does Theseus give to Hermia if she refuses to marry Demetrius?

What plan does Helena devise to get Demetrius to notice her?

What play are the Mechanicals preparing for Theseus and Hippolyta's wedding?