Dancing Mania

Rowan · Post by **Rowan** » Mon April 18th, 2011, 3:49 pm

This isn't necessarily news, per se, but I wasn't sure where else I should put it. Has anyone here ever heard of this?

Dancing Mania

SGM · Post by **SGM** » Mon April 18th, 2011, 4:14 pm

Only in relation to ergot poisoning. Such poisoning was suggested as a possible cause of the outbreaks. It has also in some cases been blamed for apparent manifestations of witchcraft although I have strong reasons for doubting this in all but a few cases.

SonjaMarie · Post by **SonjaMarie** » Mon April 18th, 2011, 5:39 pm

I've come across it or something similar called Saint Vitus' Dance.

SM

LoveHistory · Post by **LoveHistory** » Mon April 18th, 2011, 6:42 pm

Hadn't heard of this specifically before. St. Vitus' Dance does ring a bell though.

Madeleine · Post by **Madeleine** » Tue April 19th, 2011, 9:14 am

Sounds a bit like possible mass hysteria too; would a hallucigenic drug have lasted for so long? Interesting how it often seemed to be associated with "louche" activities such as gambling etc too.