PART V.
PHYSIOLOGY.
Mr. Hackett, noticing the numerous allusions in Shakespeare to the blood, and to a circulation of this fluid to and from the heart or the liver, was led, in 1859, to express the absurd idea that William Shakespeare had anticipated Harvey in the discovery of the circulation of the blood.
“What damned error, but some sober brow Will bless it, and approve it with a text.”
Mr. Hackett found many thoughts in Shakespeare concerning the circulation which were applicable to Harvey’s theory.
See, how the blood is settled in his face! Oft have I seen a timely-parted ghost, Of ashy semblance, meagre, pale and bloodless, Being all descended to the labouring heart; Who, in the conflict that it holds with death, Attracts the same for aidance ’gainst the enemy; Which with the heart there cools, and ne’er returneth To blush and beautify the cheek again. Henry VI—2d., Act III., Sc. II.
You are * * * * As dear to me as are the ruddy drops That visit my sad heart. Julius Cæsar, Act II., Sc. I.
Why does my blood thus muster to my heart, Making both it unable for itself, And dispossessing all my other parts Of necessary fitness? Measure far Measure, Act II., Sc. IV.
My heart drops blood. Cymbeline, Act V., Sc. V.
I am sure my heart wept blood. Winter’s Tale, Act V., Sc. II.