Crabbe's Practice

Name: Crabbe's Practice
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

The narrative follows Thomas Waterhouse Crabbe, a medical student characterized by his originality and independent thinking. Despite his potential, he struggles to establish a medical practice in Brisport after graduating. Crabbe's initial enthusiasm is dampened by financial pressures and a lack of patients, as he finds himself overshadowed by more established, albeit less competent, doctors in the area. Crabbe's friend, the narrator, visits him at the request of Crabbe's wife, who is concerned about his declining health and practice. During their discussions, they brainstorm ways to attract attention to Crabbe's practice. The narrator suggests creating a dramatic incident to get Crabbe's name in the local newspaper, which leads to a reckless plan involving a staged drowning. The narrator agrees to feign drowning in the local dock, and Crabbe will be the one to "rescue" him. The plan unfolds with the narrator jumping into the water, creating a scene that draws a crowd. Crabbe arrives, claiming to be a doctor, and begins a series of exaggerated resuscitation efforts, including the use of electricity, which leads to a chaotic and humorous situation. The crowd is captivated by the spectacle, and the narrator's "rescue" is reported in the local newspaper, generating significant publicity for Crabbe. Following the incident, Crabbe's practice flourishes as he gains numerous patients, effectively cutting into the business of his competitors. The story concludes with Crabbe's success and a humorous letter to the narrator, detailing his newfound popularity and the various cases he has taken on since the incident. The narrative highlights themes of ambition, the absurdity of social perception, and the lengths one might go to achieve success.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1893 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Humor, Social Commentary · 6,867 words

First lines

I wonder how many men remember Tom Waterhouse Crabbe, student of medicine in this city. He was a man whom it was not easy to forget if you had once come across him. Geniuses are more commonly read about than seen, but one could not speak five minutes with Crabbe without recognising that he had inherited some touch of that subtle, indefinable essence. There was a bold originality in his thought, and a convincing earnestness in his mode of expressing it, which pointed to something higher than mere cleverness. He studied spasmodically and irregularly, yet he was one of the first men -- certainly the most independent thinker -- of his year. Poor Crabbe -- there was something delightfully original even in his mistakes. I can remember how he laboriously explained to his examiner that the Spanish fly _grew_ in Spain. And how he gave five drops of Sabin oil credit for producing that state which it is usually believed to rectify.

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Crabbe's Practice is listed on Textopian as a novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1893 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1893 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Humor, Social Commentary, Drama, Adventure
Length: 6,867 words
Structure: 1 section, 106 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Crabbe's Practice?
How does this novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

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Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores complex characters and themes, focusing on the life and struggles of a medical student, which is characteristic of literary fiction.
Humor — The narrative employs wit and comedic situations, particularly in the interactions and misadventures of the protagonist, Crabbe.
Social Commentary — The story critiques societal norms and the medical profession, highlighting the challenges faced by new practitioners.
Drama — The plot involves personal and professional conflicts, showcasing the emotional and psychological struggles of the characters.