1. Oberon:
- The name "Oberon" is believed to be derived from the Old French romance "Huon de Bordeaux." In this 12th-century chanson de geste, "Auberon" is the king of the fairies and a powerful sorcerer who helps the knight Huon on his adventures.
- Some also suggest that the name Oberon may be a corruption of "Alberich" or "Elberich," a legendary dwarf king in Germanic mythology.
- Another possibility is that it comes from the Latin word "orbis," meaning "circle" or "sphere," symbolizing the fairy king's dominion over the fairy world.
2. Titania:
- "Titania" is derived from the Roman goddess "Titania," which was a name used for the goddesses Luna (the moon) and Diana (the goddess of the hunt and nature).
- In classical mythology, the Titans were a race of powerful gods who preceded the Olympians. "Titania" could thus refer to the queen of the fairies as a powerful being.
- Additionally, "Titania" could be related to the Old English word "titan," meaning "queen" or "lady," further emphasizing Titania's regal status.
In Shakespeare's play, Oberon and Titania are central figures in the plot involving the love affairs and transformations that take place in the enchanted forest. Their names reflect their roles as powerful rulers of the fairy realm and echo the rich mythical and literary traditions that inspired Shakespeare's work.