Shakespeariana Forgeries : a committed Protestant
[William Henry Ireland.] John Camilton, A discoverie of the most secret and subtile practises of the Jesuits (1610)
William Henry Ireland sought to establish Shakespeare’s credentials as a committed Protestant scandalized by threats of “popish plots” against the English crown. That sense is clearly suggested in his clear autograph on the title page of this popular anti-Catholic pamphlet, and in several extensive (though entirely illegible) notes throughout, ostensibly recorded in a fit of frenetic horror by the playwright.