This reference to the moon is both a literal way in which the time is marked and a metaphorical way in which to establish the imagery of passage into the dream stage. The beginning of the play takes place prior to the new moon, but by the end of the events, after all of the confusion and intrigue is past, a new phase is in effect and sees the celebration of a blessed new marriage taking place under its celestial canopy.
Act 1, Scene 1
265 of 265 rows
ACT I
SCENE I. Athens. The palace of THESEUS.
Enter THESEUS, HIPPOLYTA, PHILOSTRATE, and Attendants
THESEUS:
HIPPOLYTA:
THESEUS:
Exit PHILOSTRATE
THESEUS:
Enter EGEUS, HERMIA, LYSANDER, and DEMETRIUS
EGEUS:
THESEUS:
EGEUS:
THESEUS:
HERMIA:
THESEUS:
HERMIA:
THESEUS:
HERMIA:
THESEUS:
HERMIA:
THESEUS:
DEMETRIUS:
LYSANDER:
EGEUS:
LYSANDER:
THESEUS:
EGEUS:
Exeunt all but LYSANDER and HERMIA
LYSANDER:
HERMIA:
LYSANDER:
HERMIA:
LYSANDER:
HERMIA:
LYSANDER:
HERMIA:
LYSANDER:
HERMIA:
LYSANDER:
HERMIA:
LYSANDER:
Enter HELENA
HERMIA:
HELENA:
HERMIA:
HELENA:
HERMIA:
HELENA:
HERMIA:
HELENA:
HERMIA:
HELENA:
HERMIA:
LYSANDER:
HERMIA:
LYSANDER:
Exit HERMIA
LYSANDER:
Exit
HELENA:
Exit