I believe the technique you are referring to is a plot
device where the main storyline is mirrored, or "doubled" in a minor plotline.
Shakespeare used this technique in many of his plays to comment on, expand, or
reinterpret various themes.
In his comedy, A Midsummer
Night's Dream, the major theme is love. The main plot involves a love square between
four mortals: Hermia, Helena, Lysander, and Demetrius. Hermia and Lysander love each
other. Demetrius loves Hermia, and Helena loves Demetrius. Their relationships are, to
say the least, difficult. The foursome are discovered by fairies, who decide to have
some fun with them. Under the influence of a spell, both men forsake their love for
Hermia and chase after a very confused and hurt Helena. But in the end, love (or magic)
prevails, and two strong couples emerge from the
forest.
The doubled plotline involves the king and queen of
the fairies, Oberon and Titania. In the same way that Demetrius wants what he can't
have (Hermia), Oberon covets Titania's new companion, a young changeling boy. But
instead of giving in to chance (or magic), Oberon uses trickery to steal the boy away
from her. These doubled plots show the different ways in which power can manifest in a
romantic relationship.
No comments:
Post a Comment