| Citation |
MS-B.771.145
19 Dec 1771:1674 (1/42)
The Universal Farce Displayed.
The world is a theatre; mankind are the comedians; change
composes the peice, and fortune distributes the parts;
theologists and politicians govern the machines; and
philosophers are the spectators. The rich take their places
in the pit and upper boxes, the powerful in the front and
sides, and the galleries are for the poor. The women
distribute fruit and refreshments, and the unfortunate snuff
the candles. Folly composes the overture, and time draws
the curtain. The title of the piece is Mundus vult Decipi,
Ergo Decipiatur, "If the World Will be Deceived, let it be
so." The opening of the farce begins with sighs and tears:
The first act abounds with the chimerical projects of men:
The frantic testify their applause with re-echoed bravoes,
whilst the sagacious bring their catcalls into play to damn
the performance. At going in a sort of money is paid called
trouble, and in exchange a ticket is given, subscribed
uneasiness, in order to obtain a place. The variety of
objects which appear, for a short time divert the
spectators; but the unravelling of the plot and intrigues,
well or ill-concerted, force the risible muscles of the
philosophers. We see giants who presently become pigmies,
and dwarfs who imperceptibly attain a monstrous height.
There we see men exerting all their efforts in the pursuit
of the most eligible plans, guided by prudence, and armed
with precaution, who are nevertheless circumvented in all
their pursuits, and frustrated in all their endeavours;
whilst here we observe a group of indolent, careless
fellows, who attain the highest summit of mundane felicity.
Such is the farce of this world, and he who would chuse to
divert himself with it at his leisure, should take his place
in some obscure corner, where he may unobserved be a
spectator of the whole performance, and in safety laugh at
it as it deserves. [signed] Honestus.
|