Harvard University has removed human skin from the binding of a 19th century book titled “Des Destinées de L’âme” after ethical concerns were raised about its origin and history. The book, written by French novelist Arsène Houssaye in the early 1880s, was bound with skin taken without consent from a deceased female patient by physician Ludovic Bouland. The university’s library had been in possession of the book since the 1930s.
The decision to remove the human skin from the book came after a scientific analysis in 2014 confirmed its composition. Harvard acknowledged that its stewardship practices failed to meet ethical standards, with the book being made available to anyone who requested it without regard to the reasons. It was also revealed that students were hazed by being asked to retrieve the book from the library stacks without being informed of its macabre origins.
Following the removal of the human skin, the material is now in secure storage at Harvard Library, with plans for additional research into the book, Bouland, and the anonymous female patient. Harvard is also working with French authorities to determine an appropriate and respectful final disposition for the skin. The decision to remove the skin was prompted by a review by the Harvard Library in response to a report on human remains in the university’s museum collections.
Harvard University’s statement highlighted the library’s previous handling of the book, including posts on the Houghton blog that used a sensationalistic and morbid tone when discussing the binding with human skin. The university acknowledged the need for a more respectful and ethical approach to the book’s history and the human remains involved. The removal of the skin from the book signifies a step towards addressing the ethically fraught nature of its origins and subsequent history.
The removal of the human skin from the book is part of a broader effort by Harvard University to reassess its handling of human remains in its collections. The university’s commitment to ethical stewardship and respectful treatment of human remains underscores the importance of acknowledging past mistakes and taking steps to rectify them. By conducting additional research and working with relevant authorities, Harvard is seeking to ensure a final disposition that honors the dignity of the deceased individual whose skin was used in the binding of the book.
In conclusion, the removal of human skin from the binding of the 19th century book at Harvard University represents a significant step towards addressing ethical concerns and ensuring respectful treatment of human remains in its collections. The decision to remove the skin, along with plans for further research and collaboration with authorities, reflects a commitment to upholding ethical standards and acknowledging past mistakes. Harvard’s efforts in this regard demonstrate a dedication to responsible stewardship and a commitment to honoring the dignity of the deceased individuals involved in its collections.
