For young readers

Press, 15 August 1978, Page 14

For young readers

Dear children, Who do you think was the first “silly ass”? I read a true story recently about an actor called Mr Wilson and perhaps that title fits him well. Here is what happened, it was the year 1631 in England and Mr Wilson had been acting the character of Nick Bottom, a weaver, in Shaespeare’s play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” It was a comic part, and in some scenes he had to wear an ass’s head on his shoulders. Unfortunately, a performance of the play happened to be given on a Sunday which annoyed a group of people, known as the Puritans. They thought that no-one should have any fun at this time but should remain serious until they went to bed.

And so it was deciced to punish Mr Wilson. One Tuesday, from 6 In the morning until 6 at night, poor Mr Wilson was condemned to sit in the Bishop of Lincoln’s house in London. His feet were locked in wooden stocks; he was forced to wear an ass’s head; and he was given hay to eat In addition, this verse was pinned on his chest: Good people, I have played the beast,

And brought ill things to

pass; I was a man, but thus

have made Myself a silly ass. Everybody who came to call on the Bishop that day must have been greatly surprised when their inquiries were answered by an ass. Maybe some were sorry for him, too. I hope nobody today has a punishment like this. Tikumu