Deception plays a large part in the romantic relationships in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

 

What does Oberon hope to gain by using the tactic of deception?  Is Oberon’s employment of deception by non-violent force more problematic, or destructive to the targeted relationships?  

 

(Deception by non-violent force is often used as punishment to embarrass or humiliated the intended.   Someone who can’t be persuaded by reason/words will succumb to other means.) 

 

 Demetrius practices deception by idealization before, and after being charmed by Puck.  Describe how Demetrius’ pursuits are in spite of, or oblivious to, reactions from his intended.     

 

(Romantic pursuit rooted in deception by idealization is not solely based on the character or personality of the intended but can often include a fixation on a higher social /economic status to be gained from the relationship.  The effort of the pursuit itself convinces the pursuer that their intended is “the only one for them”.