68 pages 2 hours read

Bernard Pomerance

The Elephant Man

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1979

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance, Dr. Frederick Treves encounters John Merrick, a man with severe physical deformities exhibited as the "Elephant Man." Treves brings Merrick to London Hospital, where Merrick forms relationships, particularly with actress Mrs. Kendal. The play explores themes of humanity, acceptance, and self-identity as Merrick transitions from societal outcast to someone seeking his place in the world. Note: The play includes depictions of abuse and mistreatment of individuals with disabilities.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Bernard Pomerance's The Elephant Man is widely praised for its poignant exploration of human dignity and societal perceptions of physical deformity. Critics appreciate its emotional depth and complex characters, particularly the portrayal of John Merrick. However, some find the narrative occasionally melodramatic and uneven. Overall, it's a compelling and thought-provoking play.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Elephant Man?

A reader who appreciates The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance would likely enjoy character-driven narratives that explore themes of humanity, identity, and compassion. Fans of works like The Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo or Frankenstein by Mary Shelley would find similar emotional and philosophical depths in Pomerance's play.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Play: Drama

Auto/Biographical Fiction

Education

Topics

Disability

Health / Medicine

Relationships

Period

Victorian Period

Themes

Identity: Disability

Emotions/Behavior: Love

Society: Community