Dr. Siegfried Iseman by Edgar Lee Masters
The narrative follows a physician reflecting on his journey and disillusionment within the medical profession. Initially filled with idealism and a commitment to serve humanity, he soon confronts the harsh realities of his career. Despite his noble intentions to embody the Christian creed in his practice, he discovers that the medical field is often unwelcoming, particularly to those who prioritize altruism over profit. As he struggles to make a living, he finds himself catering primarily to the impoverished, which further complicates his aspirations. The weight of financial responsibilities, including a family to support, exacerbates his internal conflict. This leads him to a desperate act: the creation of an Elixir of Youth, a product he believes could restore his fortunes and fulfill his dreams of helping others. However, this decision results in dire consequences. He is arrested and labeled a fraud, highlighting the tension between his intentions and the societal perceptions of success and morality. The narrative explores themes of idealism versus reality, the ethical dilemmas faced by practitioners, and the societal pressures that can lead individuals to compromise their values. Ultimately, it serves as a critique of the medical profession and the challenges of maintaining integrity in a system that often prioritizes profit over genuine care.
By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Drama · 190 words
First lines
I said when they handed me my diploma, / I said to myself I will be good / And wise and brave and helpful to others;
I said I will carry the Christian creed / Into the practice of medicine!
Somehow the world and the other doctors / Know what's in your heart as soon as you make / This high-souled resolution.
And the way of it is they starve you out.
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore deep human experiences, moral dilemmas, and societal critiques.
- Drama — The narrative presents a conflict involving personal ambition, ethics, and societal expectations.
- Philosophical — The text reflects on the nature of morality, purpose, and the human condition.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · American Literature · Poetic Prose · Autobiographical Elements · Mental Health · Isolation · Loneliness · Obsession · Medical Profession · Professional Ethics · Personal Relationships · Conflict
What this Textopian page supports
Dr. Siegfried Iseman is listed on Textopian as a short story by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1916 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Edgar Lee Masters
- Date: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Drama, Philosophical, Satire
- Length: 190 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Dr. Siegfried Iseman by Edgar Lee Masters
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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