Introduction to Burke & Hare

Nadia·

Medical History

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At a Glance

SubjectMedical History

This lesson explores the dark chapter of the Burke and Hare murders, which occurred in Edinburgh between 1827-1828, during a time of significant transformation in medical education. With a pressing demand for cadavers for anatomical study and a limited legal supply, these murders raise complex ethical questions about the lengths individuals might go to in the pursuit of knowledge. The lesson dissects the actions of William Burke and William Hare, who resorted to murder to supply bodies to anatomy schools, and examines the role of Dr. Robert Knox, a prominent anatomist who may have turned a blind eye to the origins of the cadavers he utilized. Through the analysis of historical context, key figures, and the repercussions of these events, students will engage in discussions about ethical practices in medicine and the implications for modern medical ethics. The lesson incorporates the novel 'Flesh Market' by Nicola Morgan, which provides a narrative interpretation of this historical period, encouraging students to consider diverse perspectives and moral complexities.