When
we first see these characters they are in love with the objects of their
affections and are seen making sacrifices for them. Posthumous has been banished by Cymbeline for
marrying Imogen; Lysander, likewise is seen enduring Hermia’s father, Egeu’s,
wrath. Both men plan to see their
lovers, despite the fathers warnings: Posthumous promises to see Imogen again,
while Lysander devises a plan to steal away with Hermia.
Towards
the middle of the play both characters change their attitudes towards Imogen and
Hermia, respectively, albeit for very different reasons. Convinced of his wife’s infidelity,
Posthumous denounces Imogen, even going so far as to plot her murder – a stark
contrast to the devoted husband he had previously. Likewise, when placed under a spell that
causes him to fall in love with Helena, Lysander spurns Hermia, treating her
with the utmost contempt –at one point, he even tells Hermia he hates her. Again, this a far cry from his previous
behavior: before falling under the spell, Lysander spoke to Hermia lovingly and
with respect.
Ultimately,
I think these characters are distinctly similar, in demeanor and their
storylines.
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