Final answer:
Lysander in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' is an archetype of the star-crossed lover, whose love for Hermia is challenged by her father's disapproval. His dedication is exemplified by the line, 'The course of true love never did run smooth,' showing the hurdles faced by classic literary lovers.
Step-by-step explanation:
In William Shakespeare’s comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream, the character Lysander can be described as an archetype of the star-crossed lover. As an archetype, he represents the typical youthful lover who faces obstacles in the pursuit of love. Lysander’s relationship with Hermia is challenged by external forces, mainly the disapproval of Hermia's father, Egeus. “The course of true love never did run smooth,” Lysander famously states, encapsulating the tumultuous journey that lovers often undergo in classic literature (Act 1, Scene 1). This line not only exemplifies his love for Hermia but also underscores his unwavering determination to overcome the barriers that stand in their way, a hallmark trait of this archetype.