Amnesia in 1890

By Susan G Mathis

In the late 19th century, the concept of amnesia captivated the minds of medical professionals and the general public alike. This mysterious condition seemed to erase memories, so amnesia became a subject of intense fascination and scrutiny during the 1890s. It marked the beginning of systematic investigations into the complexities of memory loss as scientists and physicians sought to understand the enigma surrounding amnesia.

In the 1890s, medical knowledge was still in its formative stages, and the understanding of the human brain was limited. Neurology was emerging as a distinct field of study, and amnesia posed a perplexing challenge to physicians, and the term "amnesia" itself was relatively new.

As the field of psychology evolved, pioneers like William James and Sigmund Freud began contributing their insights into the understanding of amnesia. Freud, in particular, explored the role of psychological trauma and repressed memories in the manifestation of amnesia. His theories on the unconscious mind and the impact of early life experiences added a new layer to the ongoing discourse surrounding memory loss. The prevalence of amnesia in popular literature and theater during the 1890s reflected society's fascination with the condition. Novels, plays, and short stories often featured protagonists grappling with memory loss, adding a dramatic and mysterious element to the narratives. These fictional portrayals contributed to the public's perception of amnesia as a captivating and somewhat romanticized phenomenon.

In my latest novel, Libby’s Lighthouse, a dashing sailor, Owen, suffers from amnesia and sojourns at Tibbetts Point Lighthouse. But with limited medical and psychological knowledge, treatment options for amnesia in the 1890s were mostly experimental. Some physicians prescribed rest and relaxation, believing that reducing mental strain could aid in memory recovery. Others explored the use of hypnotism and suggestion as potential therapeutic tools. But these treatments remained uncertain, and amnesia continued to baffle the medical community. The study of amnesia in 1890 was characterized by a blend of medical, psychological, and cultural perspectives. 

Have you met someone with amnesia? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on September 19th for my next post.

ABOUT LIBBY’S LIGHTHOUSE:

Elizabeth Montonna, daughter of the Tibbett’s Point Lighthouse keeper, thought she’d love the lighthouse life forever—until her dying mother reveals a long-buried secret. Now Libby questions if she’ll ever truly belong and be loved. But when a dashing wounded sailor appears knowing nothing about his past or identity, his kindness and character steal a little more of her heart each day. Owen has no choice but to accept the hospitality of the lighthouse keeper and his lovely daughter. As his relationship with Libby turns serious, he knows their budding romance can go no further until he uncovers his past. With each passing day, Owen discovers the secrets of his identity, but will the revelations bring him closer to Libby or tear them apart forever?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has eleven in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.