On the education of the imbecile / by Dora Greenwell.

  • Dora Greenwell
Date:
1869
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: On the education of the imbecile / by Dora Greenwell. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    EOYAL ALBEET ASYLUM FOR Efctotg anti Embccilrs of tfje flortljcrn Counties, LAHCASTER. Under the Patronage of Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen. What affliction is there that more pathetically appeals for allevia¬ tion to the intelligent and benevolent than that of idiocy ? By his aimless wanderings, uncouth gestures, vacant looks, and incoherent utterances, the idiot becomes the object of the scoffer’s cruel jest, and his mental deficiencies are made manifest to all. In the homes of the poor, the idiot often passes a cheerless and neglected exist¬ ence, and is a heavy burden upon scanty resources ; and, in the most affluent circumstances, it is impossible to command in a private home the scientific appliances, medical skill, and other beneficial influences essential to the successful treatment of the idiot. Left, then, to himself, the idiot rapidly deteriorates, and becomes utterly helpless. But in an asylum, where he can be isolated from all that can degrade and irritate, surrounded by bright and happy associa¬ tions, and treated with firm gentleness, the idiot’s condition may be greatly ameliorated. He may be improved in health, habits, and self-control, and trained to industrial pursuits ; his mind may be developed, and his religious feelings aroused and directed to that Divine Love which pitifully regards the weaknesses and sorrows of the feeblest of mankind. Idiot Asylums are now in operation in England, Scotland, America, France, Germany, and other countries. It is estimated that there are 50,000 idiots in England and Wales, but as yet the Asylum accommodation is most inadequate, being insufficient for 1000. With a view to meet the urgent necessities of this afflicted class in the north of England, the Boyal Albert Asylum is now being erected at Lancaster. This Institution will provide, in the first instance, for 500 cases, and will be capable of easy and inexpensive enlargement if necessary. It is intended for — A
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