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Credulity, Superstition and Fanaticism. A medley, 1762. Artist: William Hogarth
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Credulity, Superstition and Fanaticism. A medley, 1762. Artist: William Hogarth
Credulity, Superstition and Fanaticism. A medley, 1762; Methodist meeting at Whitefields Tabernacle on Tottenham Court Road, London. In the pulpit a man is preaching, holding images of a witch and a demon whilst the congregation listen to him below. In the foreground, Mary Tofts gives birth to rabbits in an illustration of the famous hoax she pulled off in 1726; many believed that it was actually true. Second and final state of plate
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Media ID 15166900
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Birth Congregation Delivery Demon Fanaticism Fraud Gullibility Gullible Hoax Hogarth Methodism Methodist Naive Naivety Preacher Preaching Pulpit Rabbit Sermon Superstition Tabernacle Tottenham Court Road W Hogarth William Hogarth Witch Witchcraft City Of Westminster Credulity Tofts Whitefields Tabernacle
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print, titled "Credulity, Superstition and Fanaticism. A medley" by renowned artist William Hogarth, offers a satirical glimpse into the world of religious fervor and gullibility in 18th century London. The scene takes place at Whitefields Tabernacle on Tottenham Court Road, where a Methodist meeting is underway. In the pulpit stands a charismatic preacher, holding up images of a witch and demon to captivate his congregation below. Their faces reflect both awe and naivety as they hang onto his every word. However, amidst this display of blind faith lies an intriguing foreground detail - Mary Tofts giving birth to rabbits. The illustration alludes to the infamous hoax perpetrated by Tofts in 1726 when she claimed to have given birth to rabbits. Despite its absurdity, many people fell victim to her deception due to their own credulity and superstition. This incident serves as a powerful metaphor for the dangers of unquestioning belief. Hogarth's masterful engraving skillfully captures the essence of this societal phenomenon with sharp wit and biting satire. Through this artwork, he invites viewers to reflect upon the power dynamics between religious leaders and their followers while highlighting the potential consequences of unchecked fanaticism. Displayed at Guildhall Library and Art Gallery in London today, this print continues to serve as a reminder that skepticism should always accompany our pursuit of truth within matters of faith or any other aspect of life.
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