Shakespeare's whimsical play about four lovers and their romantic mix-ups takes place in classical Athens, depicted in this 18th-century map, and in a nearby magical forest, home to fairies and mischievous spirits. Midsummer's Eve – the summer solstice, or the longest day of the year – was celebrated in Europe before Christianity, and is a recognized holiday today. Customs symbolizing ancient fertility rites are still practiced, and the festival has close ties to the natural world. Shakespeare intertwines the ancient world with the fantasy realm of fairies in this comedy, which combines elements from folklore, classical writing, and his own imagination.
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