Johnson’s approach to the London cholera epidemic of 1854 is a unique one that is a surprisingly enjoyable read. Written as more of a novel than a scientific retelling of cold hard facts, he allows readers to both learn the history of the epidemic as well as experience it through the eyes of its victims. His vivid descriptions of 19th century London leave one both intrigued and disgusted, and are a useful way to look at such an epidemic in the context of the entire society at that time.
I particularly liked the idea that most historic events are “self-consciously” historic to those living through them, but epidemics are quite the opposite. It’s a dismal thought; those who are written down in history for their part in epidemics are robbed of even the small sense of celebrity that comes with being a part of a historic, if terrible, event.
The author’s attention to detail is startling, and really brings the storytelling to life, though I wonder how all of this detail, such as the fact that one of the first victims enjoyed a pudding with his contaminated Broad Street water, is known. I also noticed some discrepancies in his observations: for example, he describes the time period as “a world where it was not at all out of the ordinary for an entire family to die in the space of forty-eight hours,” when earlier, he points to the epidemic of 1854 as a frightening and new strain, because of its ability to wipe out entire families in a matter of days. Nevertheless, I am really enjoying the book, as its writing style is laid-back, and the author takes the time to draw readers in. I’m actually a little worried for Whitehead’s well being at this point, given the dramatic ending to Chapter 3.
Lastly, I really enjoyed the balance of looking at the epidemic through both a general and specific lens, by pointing out the entire city and its development, as well as the specific V. cholerae as the causes of the epidemic. These two views allow us to study the epidemic as both a biological and social incident, and give us a really comprehensive look at the episode.
Tzivi Kleinbart
