Page:Strindberg the Man (1920).djvu/83

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INFERNO
79

Raptus Melancholicus accompanied by chimerical imageries and optical illusions. It was, therefore, a typical case of ordinary melancholy which at the height of its development showed itself as Melancholia Dæmomaniaca.

Furthermore, Dr. Rhamner points out that it would be a mistake to regard Strindberg's leaning towards mysticism and the occult sciences, found in all his writings, as a pathological sign. Strindberg's mysticism is finally focused in his endeavors to bring about a synthesis between science and religion.

It is different with his pessimism. He has himself tried to explain it as having been caused by his disconsolate childhood and all his sufferings. But these only played the part of sustaining moments, while his nervous constitution and psychic depression constituted the headspring of his ever conspicuous pessimism. Strindberg was born a neuropath.

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