AMND16 Roses in A Midsummer Night's Dream, by Gabriela Carvalho and Saínza Fernández. IES Pedro Floriani, Redondela, Interdepartamental Project 2015-16. Department of Philosophy, Department of English
2. INTRODUCTION
Speaking of flowers, did you notice the way Theseus refers to lifelong
chastity as "withering on the virgin thorn"? Well, we did and we think
it's worth investigating. Check out what Theseus says to Hermia
after informing her that she has only two options if she refuses to
marry Demetrius: death or a nunnery.
Basically, Theseus says that being a nun has its advantages and all
(blessedness), but being a virgin is like being a flower blossom...
that eventually withers and dies on a thorny rosebush. On the other
hand, he suggests that a woman who gets married and has sex (and
kids) is like a rose that's been "distill'd," or used to make some
yummy-smelling perfume. In other words, Theseus thinks Hermia's
life (and beauty) will be wasted if she becomes a nun, but if she
marries Demetrius and becomes a mother, her beauty will live on a
lot longer (in her kids).
4. SUMMARY
In the Sakespeare´s essays talking about women,
who must die virgins, and to achieve they
enclosed in monasteries or are punished with
death. In this case, Hermia, if doesn´t accept
marry Demetrious. But this love is unrequited, is
the problem that exists.
Shakespeare disagree and uses a comparation
with roses (object of great prestige in England,
as a symbol of unity). Provides a woman dying
virgin is like a rose wither without having use
previously.
5. CONCLUSION
If a women dies virgin is like a rose dies in
the rose wilted without ever having given
use.
Gabriela Carvalho
Saínza Fernández