A Midsummer Night’s Dream Group

Question:

rocleri
rocleri
Student
High School - 9th Grade

what is meant by 'Masters, I am to discourse wonders - but ask me not what; for if I tell you, I am no true Athenian ?

(In Bottom's first speech in Act Four Scene Two)

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Posted by rocleri on Thursday June 21, 2007 at 1:59 AM and tagged with a midsummer night’s dream, bottom, language, quote.

Answers:


  1. jamie-wheeler Teacher
    College - Sophomore

    eNotes Editor

    As the scene opens, Quince, Starveling, and Flute wonder what has become of Bottom and lament that there is no one else in Athens who could play the part of Pryamus but he.

    Here, Bottom is telling Quince and Flute of his odd experiences "I am to discourse wonders" means that he has wonders to relate. He will not tell the assembled group, however, because he is saving the story for the Duke. He would not be a "true Athenian" if he gave such juicy information to the likes of his friends! :)

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/midsummer

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    Posted by jamie-wheeler on Thursday June 21, 2007 at 5:16 AM