Tragic as the life of Joseph Merrick was, Sir Frederick Treves’ compassion for and friendship with the Elephant Man is to be celebrated. Though the doctor’s studies couldn’t cure his patient, the time that Treves spent with him 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. This text is reprinted from Treves’ 1923 book, The Elephant Man and Other Reminiscences. The newspaper articles that follow share additional details of Merrick’s life and death.
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