School Version

31. Lysander on desk

"The tables are turned". Lysander, with pack on back, to help signify his original pairing with Hermia, begs Helena's favour. He sits formally in "seiza" on the desktop, as if on tatami matting. The incongruity of the 'gestus' suggests his request is 'out-of-order', and this is further underlined by the casual way in which Helena receives his suit.

Lysander's formal request for favour here contrasts with his dropping his pants in the Bar version (Bar 35. Boys drop pants).

A Midsummer Night's Dream