The term Temperament, says a late writer, is applied to those
differences of external appearance which are supposed to indicate
the comparative state of the fibres of the body as they are more or
less dense, or as possessing one of the functions of life in greater
activity, or one of the constituents of the animal body in greater
quantity than another; or in short, certain states or conditions of the
body, which are found to exercise more or less influence in exciting or
repressing the action of the organs.
The Temperaments as they are usually enumerated, are four in number, to
wit: the Lymphatic; the Sanguine; the Bilious; and the Nervous.
In persons of a Lymphatic Temperament, the brain is sluggish and
performs its functions in a feeble but steady manner. The individual
is averse to severe exertion, and requires much stimuli to move him. As
a general rule, he will be averse to either mental or bodily activity.
Those of a Sanguine Temperament are easily excited, and easily
depressed, fond of pleasure, and averse to severe exertions. They live
for the present, rather than the future. The actions of the mind are
quick, rather than powerful.
Persons of a Bilious Temperament are determined, persevering and
ambitious in their character and disposition. Their every movement
and aspect indicates decision of purpose. Their mental operations are
vigorous and powerful.
Persons of a Nervous Temperament, are very sensitive, and are easily
excited. Their mental operations are rapid, but they are soon exhausted.