At the beginning they are: Lysander and Hermia Hippolyta and Theseus A one sided love between Helena and Demetrius. (On Helena's part) At the end they are: Lysander and Hermia Hippolyta and Theseus Helena and Demetrius
Hermia has three choices: 1) marry Demetrius, 2) be put to death, or 3) become a nun.
The irony in the deadline set by Theseus for Hermia to decide between marrying Demetrius, becoming a nun, or facing death is that it mirrors the lack of control and freedom Hermia experiences in the play. Despite the fantastical elements and chaotic events that unfold in the forest, the strict and unforgiving deadline imposed by Theseus highlights the oppressive societal expectations placed on Hermia as a woman in Athenian society.
It con
Theseus's decision to allow Hermia to marry Lysander at the end of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" contradicts his earlier order for Hermia to marry Demetrius or face consequences. This change in decision shows a shift towards mercy and understanding, reflecting a softer and more compassionate side to his character.
Theseus in "A Midsummer Night's Dream" seems to view the law as something that must be upheld, even if it goes against Hermia's wishes. He believes in the importance of obeying societal rules and regulations, despite any personal feelings he may have.
A Midsummer Nights Dream takes place in the city of Athens, where king Theseus is getting ready to marry Hippolyta - the queen of the Amazons - who is a prisoner of war. Theseus is clearly very excited about the marriage. We never really find out how Hippolyta feels about it.
He gives her until his own wedding, in four days. He wants everything settled so he can enjoy his nuptuals.
Theseus is a Duke in a midsummer nights dream. He wants to marry Hippolyta, and when he hears that Egeus and his daughter Hermia are having difficulties, he gives Hermia three options: To become a nun, to marry Demetrius or to die.
Sparknotes, as well as many other websites, provides succinct summaries. Here's mine: Duke Theseus of Athens is going to get married in 4 days. A man (Egeus) and his daughter (Hermia) approach Theseus with the following problem: Hermia wants to marry a man (Lysander), but Egeus wants Hermia to marry a different man (Demetrius). Both Lysander and Demetrius love Hermia. Theseus commands Hermia to obey her father. She refuses, and plans to elope outside Athens' jurisdiction with Lysander. She stupidly tells this plan to her friend Helena. Helena loves Demetrius, but Demetrius wants Helena to leave him alone. Helena tells Hermia's plan to Demetrius because she thinks he will show his gratitude by marrying her. This doesn't end up working in Helena's favor, but it stops Lysander and Hermia from leaving Athens. (Sorry, my hand is hurting so I have to stop here.)
Sparknotes, as well as many other websites, provides succinct summaries. Here's mine: Duke Theseus of Athens is going to get married in 4 days. A man (Egeus) and his daughter (Hermia) approach Theseus with the following problem: Hermia wants to marry a man (Lysander), but Egeus wants Hermia to marry a different man (Demetrius). Both Lysander and Demetrius love Hermia. Theseus commands Hermia to obey her father. She refuses, and plans to elope outside Athens' jurisdiction with Lysander. She stupidly tells this plan to her friend Helena. Helena loves Demetrius, but Demetrius wants Helena to leave him alone. Helena tells Hermia's plan to Demetrius because she thinks he will show his gratitude by marrying her. This doesn't end up working in Helena's favor, but it stops Lysander and Hermia from leaving Athens. (Sorry, my hand is hurting so I have to stop here.)
Hermia does not receive punishment because Duke Theseus intervenes and offers her an alternative—either marrying Demetrius, a proposal she opposes, or becoming a nun. Theseus ultimately chooses to let Hermia marry the man she truly loves, Lysander, rather than enforce the Athenian law demanding her obedience to her father or face severe punishment.