Demetrius was intended to marry Hermia in William Shakespeare's renowned comedy, A Midsummer Night's Dream.
The Intended Union: Demetrius and Hermia
In the bustling city of Athens, the traditional expectations of love and marriage often clashed with personal desires. Demetrius found himself at the center of such a conflict, being the preferred suitor for Hermia.
A Father's Choice
The primary reason Demetrius was set to marry Hermia stemmed from the strong approval and insistence of Egeus, Hermia's father. Egeus had given his consent for Demetrius to marry his daughter, a decision that carried significant weight under Athenian law. This parental decree positioned Demetrius as the rightful and expected husband for Hermia, despite her own affections lying elsewhere.
The Love Quadrangle
The play famously explores a complex web of unrequited love and mistaken identities. While Demetrius was favored by Hermia's father, Hermia herself was deeply in love with Lysander. This unrequited dynamic formed a central part of the play's initial conflict:
- Hermia loves Lysander.
- Lysander loves Hermia.
- Helena loves Demetrius.
- Demetrius loves Hermia (at the play's outset, although this changes through magical intervention).
The persistent pursuit of Demetrius, even in the face of Hermia's clear disinterest, highlights the societal pressures and traditional views on marriage prevalent at the time.
Demetrius's Pursuit
Despite the absence of Hermia's feelings for him, Demetrius stubbornly continued to pursue her. His determination led him to follow Hermia and Lysander into the Athenian forest after they ran away from the city, seeking to escape the strictures of Athenian law and Egeus's decree. This chase sets the stage for the magical events and comical misunderstandings that unfold in the enchanted woods.
Here's a quick overview of the key characters and their relationships concerning Demetrius's intended marriage:
| Character | Relationship to Demetrius | Key Aspect |
|---|---|---|
| Hermia | Intended bride (by Egeus) | Loves Lysander, not Demetrius |
| Egeus | Father of Hermia | Favors Demetrius as a son-in-law |
| Lysander | Rival for Hermia's affection | Elopes with Hermia |
| Helena | Unrequited admirer | Deeply in love with Demetrius |
For more details on the plot and characters of A Midsummer Night's Dream, explore reliable resources such as the Folger Shakespeare Library.
