The play begins from the days leading up to the wedding of the Duke of Athens, Theseus, with Hippolita. At that time, Egeus 'complained' his daughter to Theseus. Hermia, daughter of Egeus, mated with Demetrius. However, Hermia prefers Lysander, who is disliked by his father.

In order to be together, Lysander and Hermia planned a palangary to Lysander's aunt, where the law of Athens did not apply there. At that time, Hermia's friend Helena happened to be there. Helena loves Demetrius, whereas Demetrius greatly worships Hermia. To calm his friend's heart, Hermia recounts her escape plan with Lysander. Helena also told the plan to Demetrius, to seek his attention, also to break the feelings of the man to Hermia.