Includes bibliographical references and index. - Introduction: Si vulgus vult decipi, decipiatur -- Classis stage-itinerant -- From gabble and harangue to quack's bill -- Universal improvement of mankind -- Ejaculating the soul -- Aping the medicine show: Mencken, Salmon, Yworth -- Doctor and presto -- Dumfounding -- Apollonius of Tyana -- Beginnings and endings, terrae filius on Grub Street