Winter’s Tale, Act III., Sc. III.
He was whipped for getting the shrieve’s fool with child; a dumb innocent that could not say him nay.
All’s Well, Act IV., Sc. III.
Let wives with child Pray that their burthens may not fall this day. King John, Act III., Sc. I.
Shakespeare knew of the importance of pregnant women, being particularly careful that nothing should excite them.
I the rather wean me from despair, For love of Edward’s offspring in my womb: This is it that makes me bridle passion, And bear with mildness my misfortune’s cross; Ay, ay, for this I draw in many a tear, And stop the rising of blood-sucking sighs, Lest with my sighs or tears I blast or drown King Edward’s fruit, true heir to the English crown. Henry VI—3d, Act IV., Sc. IV.
The longings or desires of pregnant women are very nicely shown in Measure for Measure:
She came in great with child, and longing for stewed prunes. Act II., Sc. I.
This mistress Elbow, being as I say, with child, and being great bellied, and longing, as I said, for prunes. * * * Measure for Measure, Act II., Sc. I.
From whom my absence was not six months old, Before herself (almost at fainting under The pleasing punishment that women bear) Had made provision for her following me. Comedy of Errors, Act I., Sc. I.