The mingled simplicity and
sophistication of the Italian character, the histrionic touch which yet
goes with perfect sincerity, the author has apprehended and presented
with happy realism.
In "Beyond their Strength" (_Over Aevne_) (1883) Bjoernson has invaded
the twilight realm of psycho-pathological phenomena, and refers the
reader for further information to _Lecons sur le systeme nerveux, faites
par J. M. Charcot_, and _Etudes cliniques sur l'hystero-epilepsie ou
grande hysterie, par le Dr. Richer_. As a man is always in danger of
talking nonsense in dealing with a subject concerning which his
knowledge is superficial, I shall not undertake to pronounce upon the
validity of the theory which is here advanced. The play is an inquiry
into the significance and authenticity of miracles. Incidentally the
theme is faith-healing, the hypnotic effect of prayer, and kindred
phenomena.
Pastor Sang, a clergyman in a remote parish of Northern Norway, is famed
far and wide as the miracle-priest, and it is popularly believed that he
can work wonders, as the apostles did of old.
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