A discussion of the news that Bottom brings his companions in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
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Introduction
In this scene Bottom has been transformed into an “ass” by Puck. When the other mechanicals find him they are scared at first, but then they become used to his new appearance. Bottom is very pleased with himself and he tells his companions that he has had a dream in which he has been transformed into an ass.
The Good News
Bottom brings his companions good news: he has been chosen to play Pyramus in the play within a play. He is so excited that he will do anything to make sure that the play is a success.
The Bad News
Bottom and his companions are excited to perform their play in front of the Duke and his court, but they are quickly disappointed when they find out that they have been given the parts of the Mechanicals. Bottom is particularly upset because he had been hoping to play Pyramus, the lead character. However, he soon gets over his disappointment and decides to make the best of the situation.
The Bad News is that Bottom and his companions have been given the parts of the mechanicals in a play. Bottom is particularly upset because he had been hoping to play Pyramus, the lead character.
The Ugly News
Bottom and his companions are surprised and shocked to hear that Pyramus has killed himself. They are even more surprised when they learn that Thisbe, Pyramus’s girlfriend, has also killed herself.
Conclusion
It is Bottom’s good fortune that he brings news of Thisbe’s rescue, which saves his life. He has also learned a great deal during his time with Pyramus and Thisbe, and is able to offer sound advice to his companions. He urges them to be more careful in the future, and to think twice before going off into the woods alone. This advice is particularly pertinent given the recent events in the play.
