"sprite"FolkloreAct 5,Scene 1Lines 362-381An explanation of Robin’s reference to a “sprite” in Act 5, Scene 1 of myShakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Robin Now the hungry lion roars, And the wolf behowls the moon, Whilst the heavy ploughman snores, All with weary task fordone. Now the wasted brands do glow Whilst the screech-owl, screeching loud, Puts the wretch that lies in woe In remembrance of a shroud. Now it is the time of night That the graves, all gaping wide, Every one lets forth his sprite In the churchway paths to glide. And we fairies that do run By the triple Hecate's team From the presence of the sun, Following a darkness like a dream, Now are frolic. Not a mouse Shall disturb this hallowed house. I am sent with broom before To sweep the dust behind the door. At midnight the spirits of the dead come out of their churchyard graves.
