The Exhibition
by Thomas Gibbons

THE STORY: Centers on the interaction of two men; John Merrick (known as “The Elephant Man”) and Sir Frederick Treves, the renowned physician who takes him under his protection.

So horribly deformed that he must cover his face and body, Merrick is given shelter at London Hospital, after being abandoned by the ruthless showman who had put him on public display, and his friendship with Dr. Treves, who raises funds for his support, becomes the focus of his life.

The action is comprised of parallel monologues, interspersed with scenes between the two men as Treves tries to bring a sense of concern and civility to Merrick's tragic existence, and, in turn, becomes increasingly aware of the deep intelligence and sensitivity which lie behind Merrick's grotesque exterior.

The climax of their relationship comes when Merrick, who has never known true human love and contact, asks Treves to touch him, to hold him as a father would a son—but the physician cannot bring himself to do so.

It is a failure which foreshadows the end of Merrick's short life and, for Dr. Treves, remains a tortured, enduing memory which haunts him for the rest of his days.