The Diary of a Resurrectionist, 1811-1812 To Which Are Added an Account of the Resurrection Men in London and a Short History of the Passing of the Anatomy Act   By: James Blake Bailey

The Diary of a Resurrectionist, 1811-1812 by James Blake Bailey provides a haunting and meticulous account of the grave-robbing trade in London during the early 19th century. Through the eyes of the author, a self-proclaimed resurrectionist, readers are transported into the dark and macabre world of those who supplied anatomists with fresh corpses for dissection.

Bailey's diary entries are captivating and provide an intimate glimpse into the daily life and inner thoughts of a man involved in this illicit profession. His writing is vivid and evocative, painting a picture of the grim reality faced by resurrectionists as they navigated the treacherous alleys, dissected the ethical and legal boundaries of society, and traded in the precious commodity of the deceased.

What sets this book apart is its unique blend of personal narrative and historical context. In addition to Bailey's diary, the author supplements the text with a comprehensive account of the resurrection men themselves, shedding light on their motivations, methods, and the demand-driven ecosystem they operated within. Furthermore, Bailey explores the pivotal events surrounding the passing of the Anatomy Act, a legislative breakthrough that brought an end to the resurrectionist era.

The Diary of a Resurrectionist, 1811-1812 succeeds in presenting a balanced perspective on a morally ambiguous period in history. While it delves into the unscrupulous actions of individuals driven by desperation and profit, it also examines the larger societal forces at play, such as the demand for anatomical study and the lack of legal avenues to meet this demand. Through his meticulous research, the author manages to avoid sensationalism, instead offering a nuanced portrayal of a complex subject.

One of the book's notable strengths lies in its ability to humanize the resurrectionists. By interweaving Bailey's personal reflections and struggles, readers cannot help but sympathize with this flawed protagonist. The author demonstrates a keen understanding of the human psyche, presenting a relatable character whose moral dilemmas and motivations resonate with the reader long after the final page.

However, despite its many merits, some readers may find the book's dense historical detail overwhelming at times. While the extensive context enhances the overall understanding and appreciation of this unique period, it occasionally detracts from the primary narrative. It is worth noting, however, that this is a minor flaw in an otherwise engaging and informative work.

In conclusion, The Diary of a Resurrectionist presents an enthralling glimpse into a grim chapter of history. James Blake Bailey's meticulous research, combined with his engaging writing style, offer readers a visceral and thought-provoking exploration of the resurrectionist trade. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the darker aspects of human history, as well as for those seeking a broader understanding of the societal forces that shape our ethical boundaries.

First Page:

The "Diary of a Resurrectionist" here reprinted is only of a fragmentary character. It is, however, unique in being an actual record of the doings of one gang of the resurrection men in London. Many persons have expressed a wish that so interesting a document should be published; permission having been obtained to print the Diary, an endeavour has been made to gratify this wish. To make the reprint more interesting, and to explain some of the allusions in the Diary, an account of the resurrection men in London, and a short history of the events which preceded the passing of the Anatomy Act, have been prepared... Continue reading book >>