The Objective of Bottom in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'

In William Shakespeare's comedic masterpiece, 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream,' the character of Bottom stands out as one of the most memorable and mischievous figures. This article will explore the objective of Bottom, a weaver and member of the 'rude mechanicals,' as he and his companions plan a performance for the wedding of King Theseus and Queen Hippolyta.

Whose Objective Is It Anyway?

Beyond the initial idea to put on a play about Pyramus and Thisbe, Bottom's motivations and objectives become audibly complex. Throughout the story, his quest can be interpreted through a myriad of lenses. Is it to gain attention, to revel in theatrics, or is it something else entirely?

Pyramus and Thisbe: The Unlikely Plot

At the core of Bottom's objective lies the desire to entertain. In the play-within-the-play, 'Pyramus and Thisbe,' Bottom's group, led by him, aims to create a spectacle for the royal wedding. The tragic love story of Pyramus and Thisbe is far from the elaborate, dream-devouring scene that Theseus expects. Bottom, along with his friends, Lysander, Hermia, Flute, Snug, and Starveling, seek to create a bit of merriment and perhaps redeem themselves in a way the royal couple never expected.

Bottom's Head of an Ass: The Turning Point

However, fate—or rather, the enigmatic Puck—interferes with Bottom's original plans. When Bottom's head is magically transformed into that of a donkey, his objective becomes even more complicated. This transformation not only introduces a layer of realism and understanding about the nature of love and magic in the enchanting forest but also shifts Bottom's objective. The once-intrepid and, at times, boastful Bottom is now faced with a truth about the nature of love and beauty.

Titania's Obsession: The Twisted Objective

The most twisted part of Bottom's objective comes when Titania, the Fairy Queen, falls in love with his transformed head. Titania, known for her grace and beauty, finds himself—now splayed with the head of a donkey—an irresistibly exotic lover. This strange form of admiration is a parody of human desire and suggests a universal truth about how love can transcend appearance and reason. For Titania, it is a romantic fantasy that ultimately results in great comedic relief and showcases the power of Puck's magic.

The Resolution and Puck's Significance

Despite the chaos and the temporary transformation of Bottom into a donkey, the play's resolution brings about a balance. Once Puck reverses the enchantment, the play-acting continues with Bottom still alive and well. The performance is performed for the royal guests, and although it is cut short to spare the boredom of the refined audience, it serves its purpose in fulfilling Bottom's objective—to entertain and engage in the spirit of a festive celebration.

Conclusion: Bottom's Evolution and Objective

Throughout his journey in 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream,' Bottom evolves from a simple weaver to a symbol of the complexity and surrealism of love and magic. His objective, initially to simply put on a play, becomes a quest for a greater understanding of love, self, and the transformative power of the supernatural. Shakespeare's portrayal of Bottom not only adds a layer of whimsical humor to the play but also provides a profound insight into human nature and its intricate, often absurd, desires.

Key Takeaways

BOTTOM’S OBJECTIVE: To entertain and engage the royal guests through the performance of 'Pyramus and Thisbe.' TRANSFORMATION: Bottom’s head turning into that of a donkey symbolizes a shift in his objective and understanding of love and beauty. MAGIC: The intervention of Puck complicates Bottom’s objective, leading to a comedic and symbolic resolution.

This article offers a deeper dive into the character of Bottom and his evolving objective in Shakespeare’s 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream.' By exploring these themes, readers can gain a better understanding of the play's rich tapestry of love, magic, and human nature.