Question 1: Identify and explain one example of Shakespeare's use of metaphor in this passage.

Answer: The phrase 'Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind' is a metaphor suggesting love is guided by understanding rather than physical sight.

Question 2: What theme is emphasized through Helena's speech?

Answer: The theme of love's irrationality and blindness.

Question 3: Describe the tone conveyed in Helena's monologue.

Answer: The tone is frustrated and longing.

Question 4: Which stage directions are included in this excerpt, and what do they reveal about Helena’s feelings?

Answer: The stage directions 'O, I am out of breath in this fond chase!' show Helena's desperation and emotional exhaustion.

Question 5: Analyze how Shakespeare's language contributes to the comedic tone of the play.

Answer: Shakespeare uses exaggerated expressions and humorous metaphors, such as love being 'winged Cupid painted blind,' to highlight the foolishness and absurdity of love, contributing to the play's comedic tone.

Question 6: Identify one literary device used in this extract other than metaphor and explain its effect.

Answer: The use of imagery, such as 'out of breath in this fond chase,' emphasizes Helena's frantic pursuit, adding humor and vividness.

Question 7: In your own words, summarize Helena's feelings as depicted in this passage.

Answer: Helena feels frustrated, exhausted, and hopeless in her pursuit of love.

Question 8: How does this excerpt exemplify the play’s use of humor related to fairy tale themes?

Answer: The exaggerated portrayal of love's irrationality, and Helena's frantic chase, parody traditional fairy tale quests, adding humor.

Question 9: Imagine you are rewriting this scene from Helena’s perspective as a fairy tale character. Write a short creative paragraph about her quest, incorporating fairy tale elements.

Answer: See full answer key