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Michael Haase
Prof.
ENGL 320
Nov. 5, 2016
The Purpose and Effects of Metatheatre in
Shakespeares A Midsummers Night Dream
Elements of metatheatre seem much out of place in a piece such as A Midsummers Night
Dream by Shakespeare. With the theme and plot concerning the nature of love and the comedy
revolving around a romantic intrigue, there seems to be little correspondence between the action
of the story and the meta sub-plot involving the rude mechanicals. Indeed, with the
denouement of the main conflict occurring in the fourth act and the sub-plot continuing into the
fifth act, the elements of metatheatre in the play appear superfluous and raise questions as to the
purpose of its existence. Its thus, owing to the dissonance between the main and sub-plots, that
an examination into the sub-plot is necessary for understanding the play overall as the sub-plot
essentially transforms the play as whole; one couldnt accurately interpret the meaning of the
play without analyzing the meta elements as well. Without them the play would reside solely in
the literary genre of comedic fantasy-romance. With the addition of the sub-plot however, it
transcends to become a meta-commentary of art and social class. The moral and themes of the
plot change when the sub-plot is introduced: meta elements are used in this play to comment on
theatre and art in general while also paying homage to patrons of the arts. With the artisans in the
play representing the subordinate class and Theseus and Hippolyta representing the aristocracy,
Shakespeare is able to pay tribute to his benefactors and insert a message about the role social
class plays in the production of art in a play primarily about fairies and quarreling lovers. In sum,
the introduction of meta elements into the play alters how one interprets it by shifting the focus
with wealthy patron has been the traditional means of acquiring fame and success since time
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immemorial. Michelangelo would not have been as successful without the support of Pope Julius
II, and Gaius Maecenas of Rome assisted famous classical poets such as Virgil and Horace, to
give a few examples. Patronage was essential in building social status as much then as it still is
today, as without it artists would go generally unnoticed regardless of talent or skill. The
foundation of art as it is known today was established upon patronage. Needless to say,
Shakespeare was no exception to the rule and required support from several royal or noble
dignitaries. In some instances, he even performed in front of the English monarch such as during
the premier of his play, The Tempest, which was first staged before James I. In the play, A
Midsummers Night Dream, Shakespeare was able to express his acknowledgement and gratitude
towards such benefactors by integrating characters like Theseus and Hippolyta. The role of these
characters consists mainly of observing the action of the plot, particularly the stage performance
of act V. Thus, they create a parallel between themselves and the audience who are observing the
play itself. In order to show appreciation for his supporters he gave these characters exalted
characteristics such as nobility and command. The battle with the Centaurs, to be sung
by an Athenian eunuch to the harp. Well none of that. That have I told my love, In glory of my
kinsman Hercules. The riot of the tipsy Bacchanals, tearing the Thracian singer in their rage.
That is an old device, and it was played. When I from Thebes came last a conqueror, (5.1.43). In
this instance, Theseus is described as kin to Hercules, and proud conqueror. Moreover, Theseus
later says, The kinder we, to give them thanks for nothing. Our sport shall be to take what they
mistake, (5.1.83). Here, he proves himself not only kind and generous but also patient and
understanding.
With A Midsummers Night Dream Shakespeare was able to pay speak indirectly to these
benefactors through the means of the characters Theseus and Hippolyta, personages which his
supporters wouldve been able to identify with through their similarity in position. As
parallel between the play and the reality, members of the audience are able to recognize
themselves in the characters theyre witnessing. This is how theyre able to receive the message.
Shakespeares message in this case concerns the need for the support that artisans require and the
expectation of patricians to furnish artisans with the means of producing works of art. As he
portrays Theseus and Hippolyta as royalty willing to deign to humor artistic performances,
despite their mediocrity, he paints a model of the responsible spectator; Although Philostrate
says, No, my noble lord. It is not for you, (5.1.70), Theseus remarks, I will hear that play. For
never anything can be amiss When simpleness and duty tender it, (5.1.76). Shakespeare means
to say that a performance should be appreciated for the effort put into it, regardless of the quality
of the execution.
To further honor his patrons, Shakespeare humbles himself and the artisan in general via
analogy to clumsy peasants. Where the spectators are given lofty attributes, the actors are
literally made out to be asses. Theyre inept, nave, and havent even a complete understanding
of the story theyre acting out: Marry, our play is The most lamentable comedy and most cruel
death of Pyramus and Thisbe. A very good piece of work, I assure you, and a merry, (1.2.5).
Through belittling himself in this way, Shakespeare makes his audience seem elevated.
Not to shame himself entirely however, Shakespeare is sure to give these characters
qualities such as diligence, devotion, sincerity, and respect for their audience. Shakespeare
depicts the artisan as a dutiful servant his patrons, dedicated to his work and concerned with the
actors and spectators to obligated workers functioning in a hierarchical scheme; goods passing
circularly with one class producing for the other and vice-versa. Shakespeare reminds the
audience that no person can exist in society without having some function or effect. Without
patronage, the artisans would not have the means to work, and without art, society would lack
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the relish and dcor that people enjoy. Thus Shakespeare illustrates the responsibilities attached
http://galileo.rice.edu/lib/student_work/florence96/jessdave/patronage.html