This is an overview of the discussion I led in class on Friday regarding Shakespeare’s use of magic in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in relation to Michael Gow’s “Away”.

After analysing the interaction between characters and how magic is used to effect the plot in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, I have developed a theory that Shakespeare used magic as a convenient shorthand for situation and events. What would take many years to happen with normal social interaction (the character’s objects of love changing) is condensed into a play-length set of reactions. With the use of magic, Shakespeare has allowed an epic story of love to fit in a relatively short time. Gow has no such license, and rather than magic uses situation and interaction to change the fundamental views and opinions of his characters. The changes occur far more subtly, but they are just as integral to the plot as those from “Midsummer Night’s Dream”.

Shakespeare doesn’t limit his use of magic to illustrate the alteration of his characters. He also uses it to establish their personality and power.
Take for example the Fairy Queen, entering in the middle of a storm. With a simple hush from her lips, the raging winds quiet. This magical event tells the viewer straight away that she is an immensely powerful character, but gentle in her use of the power. Gow employs similar introductory methods, but again substituting magic with interaction and circumstance. Within the first few minutes of meeting Coral, one can understand her unique and slightly off-balance personality.

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