The History Channel will be airing a study of Lincoln based on the Joshua Shenk book, Lincoln’s Melancholy. Shenk makes a superb study of Lincoln the individual and how he managed to encounter and rise above melancholy (depression in modern parlance, although it was understood somewhat differently in the late 19th century). Given standard History Channel quality, it may not rise to the level of production and scholarship that would satisfy most of us, but the story does deserve the telling to the general public.
Chuck in IL.
The special should be interesting. I read an extended article on the subject a few months back. One of the curious things I think they overlook, is the spiritual dimension of the issue. Don’t know too much about how Lincoln himself saw the matter, but his sadly confused and distraught wife was quite interested in classical spiritualism (i.e. séances, etc.). I, for one, would be interested in seeing that dimension of the “mental health” issue explored.
__________________ Chaplain Rob Stroud, USAF Son of SgtMaj Chuck Stroud, USMC Grandson of Private Charles Stroud, USA Great-Grandson of Corporal Chauncey Stroud, Fifth Iowa Volunteer Cavalry
It should go without saying that although I am a proud member of the military, my posts in no way reflect the official policies of the USAF or the United States government.
The special should be interesting. I read an extended article on the subject a few months back. One of the curious things I think they overlook, is the spiritual dimension of the issue. Don’t know too much about how Lincoln himself saw the matter, but his sadly confused and distraught wife was quite interested in classical spiritualism (i.e. séances, etc.). I, for one, would be interested in seeing that dimension of the “mental health” issue explored.
I believe I have read that Lincoln was a deist, but after the death of his son, Willie, he opened up somewhat to the spirtual. Mary Todd believed she could communicate with Willie (in heaven?) thru the medium at the seances. Pres. Lincoln did not believe in this but did attend some seances in order to humor his wife. Both saw portents in their dreams.
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Joshua Shenk book "Lincoln’s Melancholy" 
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