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Author Emsley, John, author

Title The elements of murder : a history of poison / John Emsley
Published Oxford : Oxford University Press, 2020

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Description 1 online resource (xiii, 418 pages)
Summary Mercury, arsenic, antimony, lead, and thallium can be lethal, as many a poisoner knew too well. Emsley explores the gruesome history of these elements and those who have succumbed to them in a fascinating narrative that weaves together stories of true crime, enduring historical mysteries, tragic accidents, and the science behind it all. The colourful cast includes ancient alchemists, kings, leaders, a pope, several great musicians, and a motley crew of murderers. Among the intriguing accounts is that of the 17th century poet Sir Thomas Overbury, who survived four attempts to poison him with mercury but died when given the poison in enema form - under whose direction remains uncertain. Here, too, is detailed the celebrated case of Florence Maybrick, convicted of poisoning her violent husband James with arsenic, but widely believed at the time to be innocent. The question of her guilt is still disputed
Notes Previously issued in print: 2005
Bibliography Includes bibliographical references and index
Notes Description based on print version record and publisher information
Subject Poisoning.
Poisons.
Toxicology.
Poisons -- Therapeutic use
Poisons -- History
Poisons
Toxicology
poison.
toxicology.
Poisoning
Poisons
Toxicology
Genre/Form History
Form Electronic book
ISBN 9780191916410 (ebook)
0191916412 (ebook)