In A Midsummers Night’s Dream, Shakespeare illustrates the concept that humans will do anything for love through the background and events. Theseus and Hippolyta are the first two characters introduced in the play, and their lives subtly support what Shakespeare says about love. According to Greek Mythology, Theseus fell in love with Hippolyta so he kidnapped her and married her. Hippolyta eventually fell in love with Theseus, and died in the name of love; “that she gave her life in defense of Theseus” (Wilson). These two characters both end up going above and beyond for each other. Shakespeare uses these characters to implement his idea of love. As the play continues, the audience learns that the tradesmen are performing the play, Pyramus
