I was first introduced to Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man, when I was about seven years old through David Lynch’s wonderful film, The Elephant Man. I was completely fascinated by his story, and it never left my head.
Horribly disfigured by what is currently believed to be Proteus syndrome, Merrick was taken in by Dr. Frederick Treves at the Royal London Hospital to receive care and comfort. There, from 1884 until his death in 1890, he experienced friendship that had not been offered while being exhibited by a showman, or during his earlier years.
Tragic as the life of Joseph Merrick was, Sir Frederick Treves’ compassion for the Elephant Man is to be celebrated. Though the doctor’s studies couldn’t cure him, the time that he and Treves spent together revealed a side of Merrick that had been hidden away. The Elephant Man’s intellect, joy in the little things, and positive attitude despite his challenges were a triumph of humanity.
Now, I’m pleased to have worked with Curious Publications on Reminiscences of the Elephant Man, which includes a full reprinting of Treves’ account of the case from his 1923 book, The Elephant Man and Other Reminiscences, as well as newspaper articles that share additional details of Merrick’s life and death, an “autobiographical” pamphlet, and several images.
This slim, hardcover edition is available on Amazon, Bookshop.org, bn.com, or wherever you buy books online.
