1. Comic Relief: Shakespeare aimed to create a light-hearted and humorous play that would provide an escape from the more serious and dramatic works he often wrote. The play is filled with misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and slapstick comedy that provide laughter and amusement.
2. Exploration of Love: Love is a central theme in the play, and Shakespeare presents different aspects of love through various characters and relationships. The play explores the power of love, its irrational nature, and the complications that arise from romantic entanglements.
3. Fairies and the Supernatural: Shakespeare used the elements of fairies, magic, and the supernatural to create a fantastical and enchanting atmosphere in the play. These elements add a sense of wonder and escapism, transporting the audience to a world beyond reality.
4. Social Commentary: Through characters like Bottom, the weaver who transforms into a donkey-headed creature, Shakespeare offers a satirical take on social hierarchy and the artificiality of social norms. The play encourages the audience to question societal conventions and embrace their individuality.
5. Artistic Expression: A Midsummer Night's Dream showcases Shakespeare's skill with language, imagery, and theatrical techniques. The play is notable for its poetic language, clever wordplay, and the use of dreams as a metaphor for illusion and imagination.
6. Celebration of Marriage: The play concludes with multiple weddings, emphasizing the importance of love and commitment. It celebrates the joyous aspects of marriage and the union of families.
7. Entertainment for Special Occasions: A Midsummer Night's Dream is believed to have been written for a special occasion, possibly a wedding or a courtly entertainment. It was intended to provide a delightful and memorable experience for the audience.
In summary, Shakespeare wrote A Midsummer Night's Dream primarily for entertainment, combining humor, love, magic, and social commentary. The play explores universal themes and emotions while providing an escape into a fantastical world of dreams and imagination.