Miko: annotations

scatter in different directions

Bottom's attempt to say “disposition”.

Many modern editions define this usage as “lovely”. However, the Oxford English Dictionary provides no definition for that meaning of the word. Perhaps eloquent Titania really did mean the more common definition of “amiable” as “friendly”, meaning that Bottom has a friendly face. Certainly Bottom's polite behavior to the fairies shows that he is very friendly.

Marvelous. Some modern editions do change this word to “marvelous”. Other's keep it as “marvail’s” or have “marvels”.

forever

Bottom, Shakespeare, or someone in the production process made a mistake here: Cobweb has been sent on the errand of getting honey from a bee. It was Peaseblossom who was directed to scratch, not Cobweb. It may be that the alliteration of “Cavalery Cobweb” was intended and the mistake lies in who Bottom sent to get the honey.

Bottom may be attempting to say “cavalier”, a formal way to address a gentleman. He may also be trying to say the Italian word “cavaliere” - that would be in keeping with the other times he uses foreign forms of address with the fairies (e.g. “mounsieur”).

bumble-bee

Fist. It's unclear why Bottom wants Mustardseed's fist, given that a fist is the worst position for a hand to scratch with. Most likely Bottom is just trying to be fancy and just wants Mustardseed's hand.

A curtsy was any sign of respect such as taking off a hat or bowing. Whatever such action Mustardseed was doing, Bottom is telling him he doesn't have to do it.