A Midsummer Night's Dream 5.1.202 Word Nerd: Ninny

The transcript explores the evolution of the word 'innocent' from its Latin roots, originally meaning someone who does no harm, to its more restrictive sense in Shakespeare's time, referring to someone naive due to youth. It also discusses the term 'ninny', derived from 'innocent', which came to mean a simpleton or fool. The transcript further analyzes a reference to King Ninas in Shakespeare's work, highlighting the irony of calling a great warrior a fool.

What was the original meaning of the word 'innocent'?

How did the meaning of 'innocent' change by Shakespeare's time?

What does the term 'ninny' refer to in the context of Shakespeare's work?

In what way does Bottom's reference to King Ninas's tomb reflect on King Ninas's character?

What achievements are attributed to King Ninas?