The Anatomist, or Sham Doctor (1722)

The Anatomist, or Sham Doctor (1722)

Social satire, Medicine in art

The English Short Title Catalogue lists six editions of Ravenscroft’s The Anatomist published between 1697 and 1763. The popularity of the play in the 18th century reflects the taste for bawdy comedy at the court of Charles II (1630-1685), first cousin of Louis XIV of France (1630-1715). After the Restoration of the English monarchy in 1660, Charles II re-opened English theatres and issued a decree that female roles in theatrical plays should thereafter be played by women, as they already were in France. The king was enamored with actress Nell Gwyn (1650-1687), who became publically known as his mistress. This 1722 edition of The Anatomist includes the names of four female actors, Mrs. Leigh, Mrs. Bowman, Mrs. Lawson, and Mrs. Robinson, in the cast.

Edward Ravenscroft (c.1654–1707)

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J. Darby, London

1722

Debra Cashion, in collaboration with Elisabeth Barrett, '15

Printed book on paper

English

Text

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