How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line). Line numbers correspond to Folger's online edition.
Quote #7
OBERON
But we are spirits of another sort.
I with the Morning's love have oft made sport
And, like a forester, the groves may tread
Even till the eastern gate, all fiery red,
Opening on Neptune with fair blessed beams,
Turns into yellow gold his salt green streams.
But, notwithstanding, haste, make no delay.
We may effect this business yet ere day. (3.2.410-417)
Oberon points out that the fairies are not dark spirits cursed to stay out of daylight. He and the fairies wander freely morning, noon, and night. These habits contrast with those of Puck, who is always trying to get out of morning's way. By pointing out that fairies can be out during the day, Oberon casts suspicion on Puck's nocturnal limitation. Puck, like the graveyard ghosts, seems to have some element in his magic that's more sinister than that of the others.