'He could mingle sublimity with pathos, bitterness with joy and peace and love' Aldous Huxley

In one of Shakespeare's most perennially popular comedies a young woman, Hermia, flees ancient Athens with her lover, only to be pursued by her would-be husband and her best friend. Unwittingly, all four find themselves in an enchanted forest where fairies and sprites take an interest in human affairs, dispensing magical love potions and casting mischievous spells. Slapstick collides with courtly romance and confusion ends in harmony, as love is transformed, misplaced and ultimately restored.

Used and Recommended by the National Theatre

General Editor Stanley Wells
Edited by Stanley Wells
Introduction by Helen Hackett

In one of Shakespeare's most perennially popular comedies, slapstick collides with courtly romance and confusion ends in harmony, as love is transformed, misplaced and ultimately restored.


About the Author

William Shakespeare was born some time in late April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon and died in 1616. He is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist.

Stanley Wells is Emeritus Professor of the University of Birmingham and Honorary President of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

Helen Hackett is a Reader in English Literature at University College London.

Book Information
ISBN 9780141396668
Author William Shakespeare
Format Paperback
Page Count 224
Imprint Penguin Classics
Publisher Penguin Books Ltd
Weight(grams) 169g
Dimensions(mm) 197mm * 128mm * 14mm