William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, is filled with memorable lines that have become iconic in the world of literature. From the whimsical musings of Puck to the passionate declarations of love, this play is a treasure trove of unforgettable quotes.
One of the most iconic lines from A Midsummer Night’s Dream comes from the mischievous fairy, Puck. In Act 3, Scene 2, Puck famously declares, “Lord, what fools these mortals be!” This line captures the playful and mischievous nature of Puck, as he observes the foolishness and folly of humans.
The play also contains some of Shakespeare’s most famous lines about love. In Act 1, Scene 1, Hermia says, “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind.” This quote reflects the theme of love in the play, as characters experience the magic and madness of love, often defying rationality and societal norms.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream also explores the power of imagination and the transformative nature of theatre. In Act 5, Scene 1, Theseus says, “The best in this kind are but shadows; and the worst are no worse, if imagination amend them.” This quote highlights the theme of illusion and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
These are just a few of the many memorable quotes from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Whether you are a fan of Shakespeare or simply appreciate beautiful language, this play offers a multitude of lines that continue to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Quotes
“The course of true love never did run smooth.”
One of the most famous quotes from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, this line is spoken by the character Lysander. It highlights the challenges and obstacles that love often faces.
“Lord, what fools these mortals be!”
This quote is spoken by the character Puck, known for his mischievous nature. It reflects Puck’s amusement at the foolishness of human beings.
“I have had a most rare vision. I have had a dream past the wit of man to say what dream it was.”
This line is spoken by the character Bottom, who has just woken up from a strange dream. It showcases his confusion and inability to describe what he has seen.
“The lunatic, the lover, and the poet are of imagination all compact.”
This quote is spoken by the character Theseus, the Duke of Athens. It compares the qualities of a lunatic, a lover, and a poet, emphasizing their shared imaginative nature.
“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.”
In this line, Helena expresses her belief that love is not based on physical appearance but is instead a product of the mind. It also explains why Cupid, the god of love, is often depicted as blindfolded.
“And though she be but little, she is fierce.”
This quote is spoken by Helena, referring to Hermia. It highlights the strength and determination of Hermia, despite her small size.
“The best in this kind are but shadows; and the worst are no worse, if imagination amend them.”
Puck speaks this line, suggesting that the actors in the play are merely shadows of real performers. He goes on to say that the audience’s imagination can make even the worst performance enjoyable.
“Lord, what fools these mortals be!”
This famous line is spoken by Puck, expressing his amusement at the foolishness of human beings.
“Are you sure/ That we are awake? It seems to me/ That yet we sleep, we dream.”
This quote is spoken by Demetrius, expressing his confusion and disbelief at the events happening around him. It reflects the dream-like atmosphere of the play.
Sparkling Lines from Shakespeare’s Play
In “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Shakespeare dazzles the audience with his poetic lines and witty dialogue. Here are some of the most memorable quotes from the play:
- “The course of true love never did run smooth.” – This line, spoken by the character Lysander, highlights the challenges and obstacles that often come with romantic relationships.
- “Lord, what fools these mortals be!” – Puck, a mischievous spirit, utters this line as he observes the foolish behavior of the human characters in the play.
- “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind.” – Helena, one of the main characters, expresses the idea that love is not solely based on physical attraction but is also influenced by one’s thoughts and emotions.
- “I have had a most rare vision.” – Bottom, a comical character who is transformed into an ass, utters this line after waking from his dream-like encounter with the fairy queen, Titania.
- “The lunatic, the lover, and the poet are of imagination all compact.” – These words, spoken by the character Theseus, convey the notion that those who possess imagination share similar qualities.
- “And though she be but little, she is fierce.” – Helena uses this line to describe herself, emphasizing that her size does not diminish her determination and strength.
- “The best in this kind are but shadows, and the worst are no worse if imagination amend them.” – Theseus states this line, recognizing the power of imagination to shape our perception of reality.
- “Over hill, over dale, thorough bush, thorough brier.” – The fairy queen, Titania, sings this enchanting line, describing the magical journey through nature’s obstacles.
- “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” – While not from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” this line from Shakespeare’s sonnet 18 is often associated with the play’s theme of love and beauty.
These sparkling lines from Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” continue to captivate audiences and remind us of the brilliance of the Bard’s words.
Unforgettable Quotes from A Midsummer Night’s Dream
- “The course of true love never did run smooth.” – Lysander (Act 1, Scene 1)
- “Lord, what fools these mortals be!” – Puck (Act 3, Scene 2)
- “I’ll follow thee and make a heaven of hell, To die upon the hand I love so well.” – Hermia (Act 2, Scene 2)
- “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” – Helena (Act 1, Scene 1)
- “The lunatic, the lover, and the poet Are of imagination all compact.” – Theseus (Act 5, Scene 1)
In addition to these unforgettable quotes, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is filled with witty and humorous lines that continue to captivate audiences to this day.
| Character | Quote |
|---|---|
| Bottom | “Methinks, mistress, you should have little reason for that. And yet, to say the truth, reason and love keep little company together nowadays.” |
| Puck | “And those things do best please me That befall prepost’rously.” |
| Titania | “Set your heart at rest, The fairy land buys not the child of me.” |
| Oberon | “I know a bank where the wild thyme blows, Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows.” |
These quotes are just a glimpse of the brilliance found in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The play is a treasure trove of memorable lines and insightful observations about love, illusion, and the complexities of human nature.
Best Lines from one of Shakespeare’s Most Beloved Comedies
A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a delightful comedy by William Shakespeare that is beloved by audiences around the world. Filled with magical creatures, mischievous fairies, and hilarious misunderstandings, the play is full of memorable lines that capture the essence of the story. Below are some of the best lines from A Midsummer Night’s Dream:
- “The course of true love never did run smooth.” – Lysander (Act 1, Scene 1)
- “Lord, what fools these mortals be!” – Puck (Act 3, Scene 2)
- “Though she be but little, she is fierce.” – Helena (Act 3, Scene 2)
- “My soul is in the sky.” – Titania (Act 5, Scene 1)
- “I have had a most rare vision. I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was.” – Bottom (Act 4, Scene 1)
- “The lunatic, the lover, and the poet are of imagination all compact.” – Theseus (Act 5, Scene 1)
- “So we grew together, Like to a double cherry, seeming parted, But yet an union in partition.” – Helena (Act 3, Scene 2)
- “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” – Helena (Act 1, Scene 1)
These lines showcase the wit, wisdom, and poetic brilliance of Shakespeare’s writing. Each one captures a different facet of the play’s themes of love, dreams, and the transformative power of imagination. Whether you are a fan of Shakespeare or new to his work, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is sure to enchant and entertain with its unforgettable lines.
Captivating Quotations from A Midsummer Night’s Dream
William Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer Night’s Dream is full of captivating and memorable quotes that highlight the themes of love, magic, and the complexities of human relationships. Here are some of the top lines from the play:
- “The course of true love never did run smooth.”
- “Lord, what fools these mortals be!”
- “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind”
- “The lunatic, the lover, and the poet are of imagination all compact.”
- “And though she be but little, she is fierce.”
- “Masters, I am to discourse wonders.”
- “If we shadows have offended, think but this and all is mended: that you have but slumbered here while these visions did appear.”
This famous quote, spoken by the character Lysander, encapsulates the central theme of the play: love is often complicated and full of obstacles.
Puck, the mischievous fairy, utters this humorous line when observing the foolish behavior of humans and their irrational actions.
Helena speaks these wise words, suggesting that true love is not based on external appearances but rather on a deep emotional connection.
These thought-provoking words, spoken by Theseus, emphasize the connection between madness, love, and creativity.
Helena uses this line to describe her friend Hermia. It reflects the idea that appearances can be deceiving and that even someone who seems small can possess great strength.
Bottom, one of the human characters who becomes enchanted by Puck’s magic, says this line with comedic and self-important flair, suggesting his desire to amaze others.
Puck concludes the play with this poetic speech, reassuring the audience that any offense caused by the fantastical events on stage was merely a dream.
These captivating quotations from A Midsummer Night’s Dream showcase Shakespeare’s masterful use of language and his ability to explore the complexities of love and human nature in an entertaining and thought-provoking way.
Memorable Quotes from Shakespeare’s Dreamy Comedy
William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a comedic play filled with enchantment and love. Here are some memorable quotes from the play:
- “The course of true love never did run smooth.” – Lysander (Act 1, Scene 1)
- “And though she be but little, she is fierce.” – Helena (Act 3, Scene 2)
- “Lord, what fools these mortals be!” – Puck (Act 3, Scene 2)
- “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind.” – Helena (Act 1, Scene 1)
- “The lunatic, the lover, and the poet are of imagination all compact.” – Theseus (Act 5, Scene 1)
- “I will roar you as gently as any sucking dove.” – Bottom (Act 1, Scene 2)
- “The more I love, the more he hateth me.” – Helena (Act 1, Scene 1)
- “I am his moon and his moonlight too.” – Helena (Act 2, Scene 1)
The play’s enchanting atmosphere is captured through these quotes, showcasing Shakespeare’s masterful use of language and his ability to express the complexities of love and human nature.
Noteworthy Lines from A Midsummer Night’s Dream
William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a delightful play filled with memorable lines and quotes that have become iconic in the world of literature. Here are some of the most noteworthy lines from the play:
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“The course of true love never did run smooth.” – This line, spoken by the character Lysander, emphasizes the challenges and obstacles that love often faces.
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“Lord, what fools these mortals be!” – This famous line, spoken by the mischievous character Puck, reflects on the foolishness and irrationality of human beings.
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“I have had a most rare vision. I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was.” – These lines, spoken by the character Bottom, highlight the fantastical elements of the play and the dream-like nature of the story.
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“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” – These poetic lines, spoken by Helena, emphasize the idea that love is not based on physical appearance but rather on one’s inner thoughts and feelings.
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“Though she be but little, she is fierce!” – This empowering line, spoken by Helena about Hermia, recognizes that even someone small in stature can possess great strength and determination.
These lines from A Midsummer Night’s Dream capture the essence of the play’s themes of love, folly, and the power of dreams. They continue to resonate with audiences and readers, reminding us of Shakespeare’s enduring brilliance.
Inspiring Quotes from Shakespeare’s Celestial Comedy
William Shakespeare’s play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a delightful comedy that explores themes of love, magic, and imagination. Here are some inspiring quotes from the play:
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“The course of true love never did run smooth.” – In the play, these words are spoken by the character Lysander to express the challenges and obstacles that often arise in relationships. They remind us that love is not always easy, but it is worth fighting for.
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“Lord, what fools these mortals be!” – This famous quote is spoken by the mischievous character Puck, highlighting the foolishness and irrationality of humans when it comes to love. It serves as a reminder to not take ourselves too seriously and to embrace the chaos and unpredictability of love.
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“The lunatic, the lover, and the poet are of imagination all compact.” – These words by the character Theseus celebrate the power of the imagination. They suggest that those who are considered mad, in love, or artistic are all touched by the magic of creativity.
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“And though she be but little, she is fierce.” – This empowering quote is spoken by Helena, a character who is often overshadowed by her taller and more graceful counterparts. It reminds us that physical appearance does not determine strength or worth.
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“The course of true love never did run smooth.” – These words are spoken by the character Hermia, emphasizing the challenges and obstacles that lovers often face. It serves as a reminder to persevere and remain steadfast in the face of adversity.
In “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Shakespeare captures the complexities of love and the power of the imagination. These inspiring quotes remind us of the timeless themes explored in the play and encourage us to embrace the magic and chaos that love brings.
Standout Lines from A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a comedic play filled with memorable dialogue and memorable lines. Here are some standout lines that showcase the play’s wit, humor, and poetic beauty:
- “The course of true love never did run smooth.” – This famous line, spoken by the character Lysander, highlights the challenges and obstacles that often arise in romantic relationships.
- “The lunatic, the lover, and the poet are of imagination all compact.” – These words, spoken by Theseus, capture the idea that those who are mad, in love, or creative are all driven by their vivid imaginations.
- “Lord, what fools these mortals be!” – Puck’s sarcastic remark reflects on the foolish and sometimes irrational behavior of humans.
- “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind.” – Helena’s line suggests that love is not solely based on physical attraction but also on a deeper emotional connection.
- “Though she be but little, she is fierce.” – These words, spoken by Helena, praise the strength and determination of women, emphasizing that size and appearance do not determine one’s capabilities.
- “I have had a most rare vision. I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was.” – Bottom’s humorous and nonsensical statement reflects the confusion caused by the magical intervention of fairies in the play.
- “And though she be but little, she is fierce.” – Another mention of Helena’s strength and tenacity, this time spoken by Oberon, the king of the fairies.
These lines are just a few examples of the beautiful language and profound observations found in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” They contribute to the play’s enduring popularity and timeless appeal.
Question and answer:
What are some famous quotes from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”?
Some famous quotes from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” include “The course of true love never did run smooth” and “Though she be but little, she is fierce.”
What is the significance of the quote “The course of true love never did run smooth”?
The quote “The course of true love never did run smooth” emphasizes the idea that love is complicated and often faces obstacles and challenges.
Can you explain the quote “Though she be but little, she is fierce”?
The quote “Though she be but little, she is fierce” is spoken by Helena about Hermia. It means that even though Hermia may be small in stature, she has a strong and determined personality.
What are some other memorable quotes from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”?
Some other memorable quotes from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” include “The lunatic, the lover, and the poet, are of imagination all compact” and “And though she be but little, she is fierce.”