Question

In Act V of A Midsummer Night's Dream, Quince presents the prologue for “Pyramus and Thisbe.” When he finishes, Hippolyta comments:

Indeed he hath played on his prologue like a child
on a recorder—a sound, but not in government.

Which tone does the simile “played on his prologue like a child on a recorder” create?


A. It creates a sad, wistful tone by comparing Quince’s performance to a beautiful tune.
B. It creates a humorous tone by comparing Quince’s performance to a child playing an instrument badly.
C. It creates a surprised tone by comparing Quince’s performance to an eloquent speech by a government official.
D. It creates a relaxed tone by comparing Quince’s performance to lovely recorder music.

Answer 1

B. It creates a humorous tone by comparing Quince’s performance to a child playing an instrument badly.

The simile suggests that Quince's delivery of the prologue was unskilled and lacking in coordination, much like a child playing a recorder instrument poorly. This comparison creates a humorous tone, as the audience can picture the image of a child playing an instrument badly and it contrasts with the seriousness of the play they are about to watch.