Monsters of Horror 21: The Elephant Man/Joseph Merrick
The story of Joseph Merrick, better known as the Elephant Man, is a poignant narrative of humanity, suffering, and compassion. His life, marked by extreme physical deformities, drew both public curiosity and sympathy, highlighting the best and worst of human nature.
This article is hard to write because while the Elephant Man/Joseph Merrick continues to be described, unfairly, as a monster, he was in fact an extraordinary and ultimately an immensely brave, some might say, beautiful human being: this should be his legacy and not to be labelled as a freak or a monster.
In this blog post, we will delve into the life of Joseph Merrick, exploring his early years, the challenges he faced, and his enduring legacy.
Early Life and Struggles
Joseph Carey Merrick was born on August 5, 1862, in Leicester, England. His early years were marked by a normal childhood until the age of five when his body began to show signs of the severe deformities that would later define him. These physical anomalies, including abnormal skin growths and enlarged limbs, progressively worsened, making daily life increasingly difficult.
Merrick’s condition baffled his family and local doctors. As his deformities became more pronounced, his father and stepmother struggled to care for him, eventually leading to his placement in a workhouse at the age of 17. Life in the workhouse was harsh, but it was here that Merrick began to consider how he might support himself despite his condition.
The “Human Curiosity”
In a bid to escape the gruelling conditions of the workhouse, Merrick decided to join a traveling show, where he was exhibited as the “Elephant Man.” This period of his life was fraught with exploitation and indignity, as he was paraded as a human oddity for the public’s amusement. Despite the dehumanising nature of this work, it provided Merrick with a semblance of financial independence and a break from the workhouse.
During his time with the traveling show, Merrick’s path crossed with Dr. Frederick Treves, a prominent surgeon who would play a crucial role in his life. Dr. Treves arranged for Merrick to be admitted to the London Hospital, where he found a sanctuary away from public scrutiny.
Joseph Merrick was a very intelligent and well-read gentleman, he often ended his correspondence to well wishers by quoting an Isaac Watts verse:
“‘Tis true my form is something odd, But blaming me is blaming God. Could I create myself anew, I would not fail in pleasing you. If I could reach from pole to pole, Or grasp the ocean with a span. I would be measured by the soul, The mind’s the standard of the man.”
– Isaac Watts 1674-1748.
Sanctuary at the London Hospital
At the London Hospital, Merrick received medical care and compassion that he had rarely experienced in his life. Dr. Treves and the hospital staff treated him with dignity, focusing on his well-being rather than his deformities. Merrick’s time at the hospital allowed him to engage in intellectual pursuits and build relationships with those who saw beyond his physical appearance.
One of the most touching aspects of Merrick’s life was the friendship he formed with Dr. Treves. Treves’ memoirs provide a glimpse into Merrick’s personality, describing him as gentle, intelligent, and articulate. These qualities, often overshadowed by his appearance, endeared Merrick to those who knew him personally.
Legacy and Impact
Joseph Merrick passed away on April 11, 1890, at the age of 27. His death was attributed to asphyxiation, likely caused by the weight of his head as he attempted to sleep lying down—a position he could not normally adopt due to the risk of suffocation.
Merrick’s story did not end with his death. His life has inspired numerous books, plays, and films, most notably the highly regarded and touching 1980 film “The Elephant Man,” directed by David Lynch, starring Anthony Hopkins and John Hurt. This film, along with other portrayals, has brought Merrick’s story to a wider audience, emphasising the themes of human dignity and the importance of compassion.
Conclusion
The life of Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of kindness and understanding. His story challenges us to look beyond appearances and recognise the inherent worth of every individual. Merrick’s legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the enduring power of humanity and compassion in the face of adversity.
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