Medical Men and Murderers: The Barber-Surgeons, Burke & Hare

In the Middle Ages, medical physicians favoured academia and aristocracy, working at universities or in private residence for the castle-dwelling wealthy. They offered consultations, but turned their noses up at surgery. With Europe frequently in battle during this long era, however, soldiers required more than consultation. π•­π–†π–—π–‡π–Šπ–—-π•Ύπ–šπ–—π–Œπ–Šπ–”π–“π–˜ Out of necessity, barbers, with their steady hands… Read More Medical Men and Murderers: The Barber-Surgeons, Burke & Hare

The Gothic History of the Great, American Freakshow

P. T. BARNUM The name Phineas Taylor Barnum (1810-1891) is synonymous with the circus. He is, after all, the Barnum of Barnum & Bailey which, upon merging with Ringling Bros. following the deaths of both Barnum & Bailey, became America’s longest running circus, pitching up for the final time in 2017. On the contemporary popularity… Read More The Gothic History of the Great, American Freakshow

Beneath the Big Top: Interview with a Circus Artist

Have you ever been dazzled by the shining lights and daring feats performed beneath the big top? Have you ever, even just for a moment, wanted to run away with the circus? Having done just that, Alia Ripley, touring circus performer, actor, and aspiring director, joins Generally Gothic to discuss the role of social commentary… Read More Beneath the Big Top: Interview with a Circus Artist