The Secret Life of Dr James Barry : Victorian England's Most Eminent Surgeon (SA interest)

Published by Tempus, 2007, softcover, index, 334 pages, condition: as new.

James Barry was an innovative medical pioneer, radical humanitarian, and flamboyant person who traversed the British Empire during the 19th century. He campaigned tirelessly for the humanitarian rights of the patient. On three continents, Barry implemented new methods of hygiene, sanitation, quarantine, diet, and effective treatment of some of the most virulent diseases known to the age. His medical reforms saved the lives of thousands of people. But Barry was not what he seemed. He courted controversy throughout his life sexual scandal, a fiery temper, elaborate dress, and rampant vegetarianism set him apart from his peers. 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 to life through eloquent storytelling this extraordinary Victorian who caused outrage wherever he went, yet through it all defiantly lived a life that otherwise.

...over ten years of work in the Cape, Barry effected significant changes, among them improvements to sanitation and water systems, improved conditions for enslaved people, prisoners and the mentally ill, and provision of a sanctuary for the leper population. Barry also performed one of the first known successful Caesarean sections in which both mother and child survived;[41] the child was christened James Barry Munnik in Barry's honour, and the name was passed down through the family, leading to Barry's name being borne by a later Prime Minister of South Africa, J. B. M. Hertzog. Barry also gained enemies by criticising local officials and their handling of medical matters, but the advantage of a close relationship with the Governor meant that the repercussions of these outspoken views were usually smoothed over.

Rachel Holmes' previous book was The Hottentot Venus.