Foreign Bodies

Foreign Bodies by Simon Schama delves into the intricate relationship between pandemics and societal response, drawing poignant parallels to the recent Covid-19 crisis. Schama's engaging narrative style weaves together historical accounts, examining how fear of contagion often conflicts with scientific advancement and rationality.

The Plot

Through a series of compelling stories, the book traverses various historical moments where cities and nations grappled with the devastating impact of infectious diseases. Schama follows smallpox in London, cholera in Paris and plague in India across the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, along with the story of the unsung microbiologist Waldemar Haffkine, illustrating the recurring themes of human vulnerability and societal resilience in the face of health crises.

Themes

• Fear vs. Science: The ongoing battle between public fear and the need for scientific understanding.
• Historical Parallels: How past pandemics inform contemporary responses and societal behaviour.
• Innovation in Crisis: The remarkable resilience and creativity that emerge during times of adversity.

Schama’s eloquent prose not only captures the harrowing experiences of those who lived through these pandemics but also invites readers to reflect on the lessons learned. Foreign Bodies resonates with readers interested in explorations of history, science and society.