The Little Cryptogram
A Literal Application to the Play of Hamlet of the Cipher System of Mr. Ignatius Donnelly.
"The Little Cryptogram" by Joseph Gilpin Pyle is a literary analysis written in the late 19th century that explores the use of a cipher system articulated by Ignatius Donnelly as it applies to Shakespeare’s works, particularly "Hamlet." This book delves into the controversial theory that the plays of Shakespeare contain hidden messages that may indicate their true authorship, suggesting that Lord Bacon was the actual writer of these celebrated plays. In this work, Pyle reviews Donnelly's methodology and examples of how one could supposedly uncover a cipher embedded within "Hamlet." He illustrates the intricate mathematical processes required to decode supposed messages, showcasing how certain words and phrases from the play are manipulated through a series of number substitutions. Throughout the commentary, Pyle maintains a skeptical tone regarding the validity of Donnelly's claims, pointing out the absurdities and complexities involved in such cryptographic exploration. Ultimately, he puts forward a compelling case for literary scrutiny of Shakespearean text while questioning the credibility of those who assert hidden meanings.