Bedlam
The Life & Mind of Earl Sedgwick

This is a very interesting look at the history of Bethlem Hospital from its inception to roughly the 1850s. The greatest chunk of the book focuses on a period from the late 17th to early 19th century, since this was the time during which a series of four men from the same family served as doctor the......more

Less a history of Bedlam...and more a very thorough timeline of mental health reform throughout Great Britain. Not what I thought I was going to read, but interesting nonetheless.........more

An interesting insight into the beginnings of mental health services in Great Britain. Interesting comparisons of the struggles in parliament regarding funding and development of services, from the 17c onwards. Many of the issues are still relevant in todays politics. Undoubtedly there’s been progre......more

Not what I expected, but informative. I didn't hate it. This book is essentially a history of policy and legislation of the hospital, as well as the corruption of its administrators. More of a 'behind the scenes' history, so be advised, if that's not what you're looking for.......more

This was better than I expected! I went fairly nuts when I was in London for a long weekend in February, and just picked this up while I was at the Imperial War Museum (bless my dear friend Laura for taking me there, given that she works there and it was a Sunday). I was just tickled that the modern......more