Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Character Relationship Maps”

In this activity, students will create three character maps summarizing the relationships of the four Athenian lovers as these relationships change throughout the play.

To analyze the play more deeply, gain a clearer understanding of the confusing and changing dynamics between the four Athenian lovers. Demonstrate your understanding by representing their relationships in Act 1, Act 3, and Act 4.

• Create simple symbols or illustrations, one for each character: Lysander, Hermia, Demetrius, and Helena.
• Represent these four characters on a map labeled Act 1; link each character with annotated directional arrows which explain the relationships between characters (e.g., “hates,” “loves,” “friends”).
• Repeat this process for the characters’ relationships at the end of Act 3, and the end of Act 4.

Discuss which characters’ situations change the most. Which characters’ affections remain unchanged throughout? Do you believe that the situation is improved at the end of the play; justify why or why not?

Teaching Suggestion: This activity can be completed in students’ workbooks, on three separate pieces of poster paper or colored paper, or on an online platform.