Question 1: Describe the setting of the fairy realm as depicted in the extract.

Answer: The fairy realm is depicted as a magical, lush environment with flowers, herbs, and a mystical atmosphere, set under a canopy of fragrant plants and flowers.

Question 2: Identify and explain one literary technique used by Oberon to describe Titania’s sleep environment.

Answer: Oberon uses vivid imagery, such as 'a bank where the wild thyme blows,' to create a lush, enchanting setting that emphasizes the mystical nature of the fairy realm.

Question 3: What is the significance of Puck’s entrance and his description of night in the context of the theme of mystery?

Answer: Puck's entrance highlights the playful and mischievous aspect of the fairies, emphasizing the theme of mystery by describing night as a realm full of sights and secrets that are hidden from human understanding.

Question 4: Analyse the use of personification in the description of the snake's skin.

Answer: The snake’s skin is described as 'enamell'd' and able to 'wrap a fairy in,' personifying it as a delicate, magical object that enhances the sense of wonder and mystique.

Question 5: Explain how the extract reflects the theme of mystery in relation to the fairy world.

Answer: The extract presents a secret, enchanting world filled with magic, flowers, and mischievous characters, illustrating the mysterious atmosphere that separates the fairy realm from the human world.

Question 6: Identify one word or phrase that contributes to the magical tone of the passage.

Answer: Luscious woodbine

Question 7: How does Shakespeare’s use of stage directions enhance the reader’s understanding of the scene?

Answer: Stage directions such as 'Enter, Oberon, Titania, Puck, and attendants' and 'Puck enters, mischievously' help visualise the scene, emphasising the playful and enchanting mood of the fairy realm.

Question 8: In your own words, describe what kind of mood the extract creates and why.

Answer: The extract creates a mood of enchantment and mystery, emphasising the magical environment of the fairy realm. The lush imagery, playful characters, and mystical descriptions evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue, inviting the audience to imagine a secret world hidden from plain sight.

Question 9: Creative Writing Prompt: Imagine you are a fairy describing your secret realm to a human visitor. Write a short paragraph (about 20 lines) that captures the mystery and magic of your world.

Answer: Students should include descriptive language, imagery, and a sense of wonder, emphasising the enchanting and mysterious qualities of their fairy realm.