1.Queen Elizabeth's Patronage:
Queen Elizabeth I was the reigning monarch during Shakespeare's time. She was a patron of the arts, and her court provided a supportive environment for theatrical productions. "A Midsummer Night's Dream" was likely written to be performed at court or for other noble audiences.
2.Renaissance Humanism:
The Renaissance period witnessed a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman literature. "A Midsummer Night's Dream" draws inspiration from Ovid's "Metamorphoses" and Plautus's comedies, reflecting the influence of classical literature on Elizabethan drama.
3. Elizabethan Marriage Customs:
The play incorporates elements of traditional Elizabethan wedding festivities and rituals, including masques, dancing, and music. These elements were common in courtly entertainment during Shakespeare's time.
4.Fairies and the Supernatural:
The belief in fairies and the supernatural was prevalent during the Elizabethan era. "A Midsummer Night's Dream" explores these beliefs, featuring characters like Titania, Oberon, and Puck, who represent the magical realm.
5.Aristocratic leisure:
The play revolves around the leisure activities of the Athenian upper classes, who engage in hunting, dancing, and other forms of entertainment. This reflects the social and leisure pursuits of the Elizabethan aristocracy.
6. Social and Political Satire:
"A Midsummer Night's Dream" contains elements of social and political satire, often using humor to poke fun at societal conventions, class distinctions, and human follies.
7. Allegory and Symbolism:
The play employs allegory and symbolism to convey deeper meanings, allegorically representing love's complexities and the interplay between reality and illusion.
8. Pastoral and Courtly Settings:
The play intertwines two distinct settings: the pastoral forest and the courtly Athenian society. This juxtaposition highlights the contrast between the natural world and the artificiality of court life.
In conclusion, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is a product of the Elizabethan era, reflecting the cultural, classical, and social influences of that time. Shakespeare drew upon Elizabethan customs, beliefs, and literary traditions to create a fantastical and enchanting world that still resonates with audiences today.