Why does Shakespeare repeat ‘O’er’ on these three lines? How does the repetition show Mab as powerful?

Answer 1

Hi Chloe,

I'm not quite sure which 3 lines you meant since you didn't include a quote, but looking at the Queen Mab speech in general, I think we could say that the use of "o'er" (over) subtly highlights the fairy's power in a few ways. Firstly, repetition in any form tends to drive in an impression; it creates a feeling of insistence and mounting energy. Secondly, if we look at the word "over" itself, it literally means to be superior to something, to be physically elevated, so this word choice highlights Mab's superiority or magical powers in that she is literally flying as she pleases willy-nilly over the variety of hapless humans, sometimes playing with them a little on the way, that are described in the poem. Thus, the poet's repeated use of this word is a subtle, but powerful way to create a sense of the quick, light, dancing energy of the fairy midwife who flits about and teases all of the unsuspecting humans.

Hope this helps! :)