'From time to time a truly original piece of research comes to life. Scanty Particulars is not only a wonderful read, it captures the essence of one of the most enigmatic characters of the 19th Century.' Amanda Foreman
In 1826 a young military surgeon performed the first recorded successful caesarean section. This was one of many achievements by the radical and outrageous Dr James Barry. Feted by Dickens, deplored by Florence Nightingale, Barry earned international fame for medical innovations and infamy for battles with the establishment. And it was entirely typical of his life that on his death the greatest scandal of all broke out: was Barry a man or a woman?
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
Holmes's life of Barry is undeniably fascinating but she struggles throughout her book with two difficulties, one of which is suggested by her title. There are indeed "scanty particulars" available about Barry's life and many important questions about him/her will always remain unanswered. The other difficulty is related to the first. Does Barry have an importance beyond the startling fact that "he" may have been a "she"? It is a tribute to Holmes's skill and depth of research that the answer most readers will reach is "Yes". Holmes has rescued from near-oblivion someone who, whatever their gender, was a genuine medical pioneer and highlights a person whose life raises interesting questions about fixed categories of gender. --Nick Rennison
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Book Description Paperback. Condition: Very Good. The book has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged. Seller Inventory # GOR001850967
Book Description Paperback. Condition: Good. The book has been read but remains in clean condition. All pages are intact and the cover is intact. Some minor wear to the spine. Seller Inventory # GOR002629765
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Book Description Paperback. Condition: Very Good. 338 pages. This is a biography of the enigmatic Dr James Mira nda Barry, who performed the first recorded successful caesarean section. Posted by the army as staff surgeon, Barry spent much of his career traversing the globe and eventually reaching the hige st rank of Inspector General of Hospitals. But throughout his car eer, Barry courted controversy - through his flamboyant dress, hi s dalliances with society women and his strange and enduringly in timate friendship with Lord Charles Somerset, Governor of South A frica. The mystery surrounding Barry climaxed after his death, wh en the servant who laid out his body made a most surprising revel ation. Seller Inventory # 2243s
Book Description Paperback. James Miranda Barry was an innovative medical pioneer, radical humanitarian and flamboyant dandy who criss-crossed the British Empire during the nineteenth century. But Barry was not what he seemed. He courted controversy throughout his life - sexual scandal, a fiery temper, extravagant dress and rampant vegetarianism set him apart from his fellows. Yet all the while he concealed a secret that went right to the heart of his identity. Rachel Holmes pursues Barry's tumultuous adventures across the globe, bringing alive this extraordinary Victorian who caused outrage wherever he went, yet defiantly lived a life that otherwise would have been denied him. Seller Inventory # 17094346
Book Description Paperback. James Miranda Barry was an innovative medical pioneer, radical humanitarian and flamboyant dandy who criss-crossed the British Empire during the nineteenth century. But Barry was not what he seemed. He courted controversy throughout his life - sexual scandal, a fiery temper, extravagant dress and rampant vegetarianism set him apart from his fellows. Yet all the while he concealed a secret that went right to the heart of his identity. Rachel Holmes pursues Barry's tumultuous adventures across the globe, bringing alive this extraordinary Victorian who caused outrage wherever he went, yet defiantly lived a life that otherwise would have been denied him. 2003. A fine, unread copy. Seller Inventory # 16799376