JOURNAL ARTICLE

Airy Nothing: Epistemology in A Midsummer Night's Dream.

  • Published In: Philosophy & Literature, 2024, v. 48, n. 2. P. 360 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Strier, Richard 3 of 3

Abstract

This essay explores the epistemological implications of A Midsummer Night's Dream. It distinguishes among metaphors—some are mere "figures of speech," others have descriptive (and prescriptive) power, while others seem to be literalized in the action. The claim that lovers are epistemologically advantaged with regard to the love object is seen as both explored and mocked. The role of the fairies and the "love potion" is examined. Both are to be recognized as fictions. Theseus's speech about lovers, madmen, and poets is taken seriously, and the epilogue is taken as manifesting genuine anxiety that the play might be "reprehended." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:Philosophy & Literature. 2024/10, Vol. 48, Issue 2, p360
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2024
  • ISSN:0190-0013
  • DOI:10.1353/phl.2024.a950964
  • Accession Number:182990571
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Philosophy & Literature is the property of Johns Hopkins University Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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