MALVOLIO. CHRISTOPHER SLY. COMEDY OF ERRORS.
In the time when Shakespeare wrote, and of which he wrote, there existed no "Imputed Lunatics' Society." At least there are no records of its existence, and not even a tradition thereof. Is it possible that one of the members may have immolated the Secretary on a funeral pyre of the proceedings, and thus converting the whole into the "baseless fabric of a vision, left not a wreck behind." If so, the more's the pity; for if the writings of Shakespeare may be taken as a guide, it was more needed then than it is now; inasmuch as the false imputation of insanity appears at that time to have been quite a common incident.
These characters of imputed insanity were needful to bring Shakespeare's psychological delineations "full circle round." The various phases of real and feigned insanity, which he has depicted with such marvellous skill and truthfulness, needed this one link to complete the chain. In its way it is perfect, as representing not only a masterly and most amusing sketch of the fabrication of imputed lunacy, but also of the treatment thought to be suitable for the insane in those days. Some incidental references to the treatment of the insane are to be found in several of the dramas. Thus Cominius says to Coriolanus,
"If, 'gainst yourself you be incens'd, we'll put you
(Like one that means his proper harm) in manacles."
In Romeo and Juliet also is the following:
