E S S A Y Y I .
OF EXPRESSION IN R EFER EN C E TO THE BODY. EXPRESSION SUPERSEDED
BY LANGUAGE.
I n the preceding essays, the greater number of the instances of
expression, indicate to us, that the apparatus of respiration is the
instrument by which the emotions are manifested. The powerful
passions influence the same class of nerves, and consequently of
muscles, that are active in highly excited or anxious breathing.
In fear or in grief, the motions of the nostrils, the uncontrollable
tremor of the lips, the distress and convulsion of the neck and chest,
and the audible sobbing, prove that the mind’s influence is extended
over the respiratory organs, so that there is not much difference
betwixt the action of the frame during the violence of the passions
and the agony of a drowning man.
But having traced the connexion betwixt the excitement of the
breast or trunk of the body and the expression of the countenance,
we may direct our attention for a moment to the consent which is
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