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Osler and bookworms--the "Henry connection"
Bulletin of the Medical Library Association
|October 1, 1984
Summary
Sir William Osler and F. P. Henry shared a unique interest in insect bookworms. Newly found evidence suggests Henry influenced Osler
Area of Science:
- Bibliomancy and entomology
- History of medicine
- Medical humanities
Background:
- Sir William Osler and F. P. Henry, prominent figures, had a shared, lesser-known interest in insect bookworms.
- Both authors published articles on the topic, with Osler's work appearing 13 years after Henry's.
Discussion:
- The study examines several unpublished communications detailing Osler's fascination with bookworms.
- A recently discovered 1903 inscription from Osler to Henry provides new insights.
Key Insights:
- The 1903 inscription indicates Osler's early engagement with the subject of bookworms.
- This discovery suggests F. P. Henry may have significantly influenced Osler's interest in insect bookworms.
Outlook:
- Further research could explore the broader intellectual connections between medical professionals and natural history interests.
- Investigating the content of unpublished communications may reveal more about the nature of their shared interest.