An Analysis Of Theseus Punishment Of Hermia
The disapproval of sexually liberated women is also apparent in Theseus’ punishment of Hermia in the scene of her introduction to the audience subjected to either death or living as a nun, ‘Withering on the virgin thorn’, and therefore living a sexually suppressed life as a punishment for her passionate feelings for Lysander. Not only do Egeus’ actions set a precedent of male superiority as he shows that the fate (and life) of his daughter lay almost entirely in his hands, but the compromise offered by Theseus (which can be seen as another of his more caring and charitable moments) are almost a Hobson’s choice, not providing viable alternatives for a young woman to live by, with each option looking equally as unappealing to Hermia. The options
given show blatant intent to control Hermia’s sexuality and don't allow her the same freedom we see Theseus express when choosing his partner or Demetrius for example, who demands that Hermia should marry him against her will because it is his ‘Right’. It is also notable that although absent from Act 1 to Act 4, Theseus’ actions are a root of the issues the young lovers, particularly Hermia and Helena, face, and this gives Theseus the feel of near Omnipresence.
given show blatant intent to control Hermia’s sexuality and don't allow her the same freedom we see Theseus express when choosing his partner or Demetrius for example, who demands that Hermia should marry him against her will because it is his ‘Right’. It is also notable that although absent from Act 1 to Act 4, Theseus’ actions are a root of the issues the young lovers, particularly Hermia and Helena, face, and this gives Theseus the feel of near Omnipresence.