Gentles, perchance you wonder at this show; but wonder on, till truth make all things plain

Gentles, perchance you wonder at this show; but wonder on, till truth make all things plain

In William Shakespeare's plays, the characters often speak directly to the audience, breaking the fourth wall and inviting them to engage with the story in a more intimate way. One such instance is in the play "A Midsummer Night's Dream," where the character of Puck addresses the audience with the line, "Gentles, perchance you wonder at this show; but wonder on, till truth make all things plain."

This line serves as a reminder to the audience that what they are witnessing on stage may seem fantastical or confusing at first, but as the story unfolds, the truth behind the characters' actions and motivations will become clear. It encourages the audience to suspend their disbelief and trust that all will be revealed in due time.

Shakespeare often used these moments of direct address to create a sense of connection between the actors and the audience, drawing them into the world of the play and making them active participants in the storytelling process. By acknowledging the audience's presence and inviting them to wonder along with the characters, Shakespeare breaks down the barrier between the stage and the audience, creating a sense of shared experience.