Following Part 1’s exploration of theatrical references at Soulton, we now turn to the intriguing medical symbolism James D. Wenn identifies within the historic estate of Sir Rowland Hill.
Building upon the established connection between medicine and theatre in the ancient world, Mr. Wenn explores links between Sir Rowland Hill, healing practices, and the design of Soulton Hall itself.
Wenn’s research highlights a biographical connection between Sir Rowland Hill and Dr. John Caius, a prominent Tudor physician. He examines Dr. Caius’ involvement with the Council of the Marches, the powerful and pioneering governing body of which Hill was a member for this area in Tudor time that addressed outbreaks of illnesses like the sweating sickness in Shrewsbury, not far from Soulton Hall.
Mr Wenn focuses our attention on a specific room on the south face of Soulton Hall, which has, for the longest times, been seen as a dedicated healing space by family tradition: the Abaton.
He explores how that room’s location aligns with a projected cross emanating from the house’s structure and the ways Asclepius was thought about at Epidaurus.
Furthermore, Wenn identifiies a connection between the building’s design and a conceptual rhombic dodecahedron, (a geometric form associated with healing in the early modern period and ancient times).
Contextulising this, Wenn’s research draws attention to a “well of catharsis” located at the end of the lost avenue leading to Soulton Hall from the bridge. “Catharsis” in the Renaissance context often referred to a process of purification or cleansing, potentially linked to healing practices.
As James D. Wenn’s research demonstrates, Soulton Hall’s design may embodies the Renaissance worldview, where medicine, theatre, and the divine were seen as interconnected concepts.
By weaving these elements into the very fabric of the building, Sir Rowland Hill may have created a space that transcended its physical form, reflecting a holistic approach to well-being.
Further Exploration
This blog series has explores the research on Soulton Hall James D. Wenn presents in the video embeded in this post.
For those interested in delving deeper, we encourage you to explore Mr. Wenn’s work and engage with the scholarly discussions surrounding this remarkable historical site.
The next post on these matters can be found here.
