When told not to have more children, he would not give up what he wanted but went ahead. Looks like his vision is the only ruling force in that family and he chooses to listen or not to others opinions.
A wife walking around like a zombie with greasy matted hair and reeking is a definite clue that things are not working.
One thing is certain. If he had requested a separation because of her state, they would have placed the kids with her. It always seems to work that way. I can think of two cases right now where the mother was certifiably nuts but got custody.