1. Supernatural Element:
Fairies introduce an otherworldly, supernatural element to the play. Their magical abilities and mischievous nature create an atmosphere of enchantment and fantasy that sets the tone for the midsummer night.
2. Agents of Chaos and Love:
Fairies bring disorder and chaos to the mortal world, particularly in the realm of love. The love potion mistake caused by Puck's well-intentioned but misguided actions leads to several humorous misunderstandings and romantic complications among the play's human characters.
3. Parallel to Mortal World:
The fairy world in the play mirrors the mortal world, depicting societal hierarchies and romantic entanglements. Titania, the queen of the fairies, and Oberon, the king, have their marital issues, much like the human couples in the play.
4. Symbolism and Metaphor:
The fairies often serve as symbols and metaphors for various human qualities and emotions. Their lightness, flight, and mischievousness suggest freedom and detachment from earthly concerns, while their love disputes allude to the capriciousness of human love and desire.
5. Comic Relief:
The antics and misunderstandings caused by the fairies provide comic relief throughout the play. Their involvement adds a lighthearted element that contrasts with the more serious and romantic aspects of the plot.
6. Dramatic Structure:
The presence of fairies allows for the inclusion of multiple interwoven storylines and subplots. The interactions between the fairies and the mortal characters create a dynamic and complex narrative structure that keeps the audience engaged.
Overall, the fairies in Midsummer Dream contribute to the play's overall theme of confusion, love's folly, and the interconnectedness of the natural and supernatural worlds.