10 Questions
What prevents Pyramus and Thisbe from being together?
Their families forbid their relationship
Why do Pyramus and Thisbe plan to escape?
To get away from their families' feud
Where do Pyramus and Thisbe plan to meet?
At Ninus' Tomb
What mistake leads to the tragic deaths of Pyramus and Thisbe?
Pyramus thinks Thisbe was killed by a lioness
How does Pyramus die?
He kills himself with a sword
In which Shakespeare play is the story of Pyramus and Thisbe retold?
A Midsummer Night's Dream
Where is the story of Pyramus and Thisbe set?
Babylon
What does the wall between Pyramus and Thisbe symbolize?
The hatred that divides their families
What happens to Thisbe when she finds Pyramus dead?
She kills herself with a sword
What is the main obstacle to Pyramus and Thisbe's love?
Their families' hatred for each other
Study Notes
Pyramus and Thisbe
- Pyramus and Thisbe communicate through a crack in the wall because their families forbid their relationship.
- They plan to meet at Ninus' Tomb to run away together.
The Misunderstanding and Tragic Deaths
- A misunderstanding leads to their tragic deaths: Pyramus thinks Thisbe was killed by a lioness.
- Pyramus kills himself with a sword due to this misconception.
- Thisbe finds Pyramus dead and kills herself with the same sword.
The Story's Significance and Symbolism
- The wall between Pyramus and Thisbe symbolizes the hatred that divides their families.
- The story of Pyramus and Thisbe is set in Babylon.
- The mulberry tree's red berries are a lasting symbol of their love.
Connections to Other Works
- A version of the story of Pyramus and Thisbe is included in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.
Themes
- Central themes in the story of Pyramus and Thisbe include love, dreams, hopes, and plans, as well as tragic misunderstandings.
- Betrayal is not a central theme in the story.
Test your knowledge of the ancient Babylonian legend of Pyramus and Thisbe, star-crossed lovers from feuding families. Explore the story's plot and themes in this short quiz.
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