* To contrast with the nobility: The use of verse (poetry) is generally associated with the upper classes, royalty, and nobility in Shakespeare's plays. The use of prose by the craftsmen highlights their lower social standing and emphasizes their difference from the aristocratic characters.
* To highlight their comedic nature: Prose is often used for comedic effect, as it can be more informal and less elevated than verse. The craftsmen's clumsy attempts at poetry and their everyday language create humor for the audience.
* To create a sense of realism: While the play deals with magical elements and fantastical situations, the craftsmen are grounded in the real world. Their use of prose makes them seem more relatable and down-to-earth, emphasizing their contrast with the more fantastical elements of the play.
In essence, the use of prose by the craftsmen helps to define their character, their social status, and their role within the play's larger comedic framework.