Short Narrative of an Extraordinary Delivery of Rabbets

A Short Narrative of an Extraordinary Delivery of Rabbets Perform'd by Mr. John Howard Surgeon at Guilford is a fascinating and peculiar historical account first published in 1727, chronicling one of the most bizarre medical cases of the eighteenth century. The book details the sensational story of Mary Toft, a woman from Godalming, Surrey, who claimed to have given birth to several rabbits. The narrative, written by John Howard, the local surgeon who attended her, provides a firsthand account of the events as they unfolded, including the examinations, the reactions of the medical community, and the public frenzy that ensued. Howard meticulously describes the circumstances under which he was called to attend Mary Toft, the astonishing deliveries he witnessed, and the subsequent involvement of other prominent physicians and surgeons, including those sent from London by the royal court. The book captures the incredulity, skepticism, and eventual exposure of the case as a hoax, offering insight into the medical practices, beliefs, and gullibility of the era. Through vivid descriptions and detailed observations, Howard's narrative not only recounts the physical events but also explores the psychological and social factors that contributed to the widespread belief in such an extraordinary phenomenon. A Short Narrative of an Extraordinary Delivery of Rabbets is both a medical curiosity and a window into the culture of early eighteenth-century England, highlighting the intersection of science, superstition, and sensationalism. It remains a compelling read for those interested in medical history, social psychology, and the enduring human fascination with the strange and unexplained.