Question 1: Here is an excerpt from Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, involving the fairy king Oberon and Puck: 'Oberon: I know a bank where the wild thyme blows, Where the oxlip and the purple violet grows, Quite overcanopied with luscious woodbine, With sweet musk-roses and with eglantine: There sleeps Titania sometimes of the night, There sleeps the duke's daughter, with her moan, Bleeding on the bed, where sometimes she doth rest, A dream of love and fairies in her breast.' Read this passage carefully, then answer the questions below.

Answer: Students should identify the imagery of nature and fairy influence.

Question 2: What literary device is used in the phrase 'the wild thyme blows'?

Answer: d) Alliteration

Question 3: Describe the significance of the setting in the excerpt for the fairy characters.

Answer: Expect students to discuss how the natural setting enhances the mystical and enchanting atmosphere for the fairies.

Question 4: Identify and explain the use of any two literary devices present in the passage.

Answer: Students should identify devices such as imagery and personification and explain their effects.

Question 5: How does Shakespeare depict the relationship between Oberon and Titania in this scene?

Answer: Students should note the conflict or power dynamic implied.

Question 6: Explain the role of Puck in the scene and how he influences the fairy world.

Answer: Students should discuss Puck's mischievous nature and his function as a messenger or catalyst.

Question 7: Identify a metaphor used in the excerpt and explain its meaning.

Answer: Students should identify the metaphor and interpret its significance.

Question 8: Creative Writing Prompt: Imagine you are a fairy in the Shakespearean world. Write a short poem describing your favorite place in the fairy realm.

Answer: Assess creativity, descriptive language, and use of fairy imagery.

Question 9: List three qualities that make fairies enchanting characters in Shakespeare's play.

Answer: Creativity can vary; accept qualities like mischievousness, magic, and mystery.

Question 10: In your own words, explain how the natural setting contributes to the magical atmosphere of the fairy scene.

Answer: Students should refer to imagery, surroundings, and mood created by nature.