Context: The role of Helena is often seen as passive. She follows Demetrius like a 'spaniel' and seems to have little self-respect. In this production, however, the women have more strength. Hermia is forceful against her father's ruling; Helena is cheerfully enthusiastic in her pursuit of Demetrius. Hippolyta also brushes Theseus aside to demonstrate her disapproval of the law of Athens as she strides off stage in the opening scene. | 
