How did Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream inspire Felix Mendelssohn’s music?

Felix Mendelssohn was deeply inspired by William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream after reading the play in German translations during his youth. At age 17, he composed a concert overture intended to capture the comedy's unique atmosphere.1

In 1843, at the request of King Frederick William IV, Mendelssohn expanded this work into a full set of incidental music for a royal production. He utilized specific themes and moods from the play to craft 14 pieces that evoke its magical spirit. Notable examples include:1

• Character depictions: The bassoon mimics the grunting of Nick Bottom, while horn calls evoke the presence of Oberon.2
• Atmospheric movements: The set features a nimble scherzo for the fairies, a haunting nocturne, and a lullaby for Titania.1
• Iconic themes: The famous "Wedding March" was composed to accompany the play's concluding nuptials.1