GCSE: English Literature: Drama: By Author: William Shakespeare: A Midsummer Night's Dream Essays, Coursework and Assignments

Studying A Midsummer Night's Dream.

No murders, battles or shipwrecks, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is one of the happiest Shakespeare plays. The story revolves around a magical night where the mischievous character of Puck uses a love potion to create chaos for both humans and fairies. There's also a play within a play, as some comedy yokels rehearse for their big performance. Some of Shakespeare's Elizabethan jokes may need a little translation (get yourself a good study guide), but everyone who likes happy endings should enjoy this play.

A Midsummer Night's Dream: What Will I Study?

Studying "A Midsummer Night's Dream" for GCSE English Literature means you having a good understanding of the plot and characters in the play. In the exam you'll be asked to answer question on extracts from the text, but you'll need that background knowledge to gain extra marks. You'll be asked to explain the characters' actions and how an audience would respond to seeing them.

Most GCSE English Literature students will also have to complete coursework comparing film versions of "A Midsummer Night's Dream". One common essay question asks you to advise an actor on how to play one of the major roles. Stage productions of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" are often performed out of doors - if you're lucky with the weather it can be a magical experience.

A Midsummer Night's Dream... What Can I Study Next?

If you've enjoyed "A Midsummer Night's Dream", then taking an English Literature A Level should give you the opportunity to cover another of Shakespeare's plays. Most university courses in English literature will also involve studying Shakespeare.

External links to more information about A Midsummer Night's Dream.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/drama/shakespeare/60secondshakespeare/themes_index.shtml

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