Early Origins:
* Medieval Fairylore: Queen Mab appears as a mischievous and often malevolent fairy queen in medieval folk tales. She is associated with dreams, nightmares, and even death.
* "The Merry Wives of Windsor" (1602): William Shakespeare was the first major literary figure to mention Queen Mab in his play. He describes her as a tiny queen who rides upon the backs of gnats and delivers dreams to sleeping people. This portrayal of her is light-hearted and playful.
Later Developments:
* "Romeo and Juliet" (1595-1596): Shakespeare further solidified Queen Mab's association with dreams in his famous play. Romeo describes her as a "tiny midwife" who "weaves the sights of lovers' brains."
* "The Faerie Queen" (1590-1596): Edmund Spenser's epic poem features a queen of the fairies named "Mab," but she is not directly connected to the Queen Mab of Shakespeare's plays.
* "The Rape of the Lock" (1712): Alexander Pope's mock-heroic poem features Queen Mab as a mischievous fairy who plays a pivotal role in the story, further establishing her as a significant figure in literary imagination.
Modern Influences:
* "A Midsummer Night's Dream" (1595-1596): While not directly mentioned, the play's themes of magic, love, and illusions resonate with the imagery associated with Queen Mab.
* "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" (1876): Mark Twain references Queen Mab in his classic novel, showcasing the enduring influence of the character.
* "The Sandman" (1989-1996): Neil Gaiman's graphic novel series reimagines Queen Mab as a powerful and enigmatic figure, drawing upon her mythical origins and modern interpretations.
Evolution of the Character:
Queen Mab's role and character have evolved over centuries. From a mischievous fairy in medieval folklore to a powerful queen of dreams in modern literature, she has remained a compelling figure in the imaginations of writers and readers alike. Her association with dreams, nightmares, and the magical realm continues to fascinate and inspire.
It's important to note that while Shakespeare's plays helped solidify Queen Mab's place in literature, her origins predate him. She is a product of both medieval folklore and the evolving literary imagination.