Doctor in Love (novel)

Doctor in Love (novel)

Doctor in Love is a novel written by British author Richard Gordon, part of the Doctor series that delves into the humorous and often chaotic lives of medical professionals. First published in 1957, the book continues the adventures of Dr. Richard Gordon and his colleagues as they navigate the challenges and comedic situations in their medical and personal lives. The novel is set in the post-war period, offering a light-hearted and satirical take on the medical profession and the changes it was undergoing during that time.

Plot Summary

Doctor in Love finds Dr. Richard Gordon at a crossroads in both his personal and professional life. After a series of humorous mishaps in his career and love life, Gordon decides to take a more serious approach to both. The novel follows his endeavors to balance the demands of working in a hospital with the complexities of romantic relationships. Along the way, Gordon and his friends encounter a variety of characters, from demanding patients to eccentric fellow doctors, each adding to the comedic tapestry of the story.

Characters

• Dr. Richard Gordon: The protagonist, a young doctor trying to find his footing in both his career and love life.
• Dr. Tony Benskin: Gordon's friend and colleague, known for his carefree attitude towards work and love.
• Dr. Hugh Evans: Another friend of Gordon, who often finds himself entangled in Gordon and Benskin's schemes.
• Sally: Gordon's love interest, whose relationship with him is central to the novel's plot.

Themes

Doctor in Love explores themes of love, career, and the pursuit of happiness within the context of the medical profession. The novel humorously addresses the challenges of maintaining professional integrity and personal relationships amidst the demanding and often absurd world of medicine. It also reflects on the human side of being a doctor, portraying the medical profession in a more relatable and less idealized manner.

Reception

The novel was well-received for its humor, wit, and insightful commentary on the medical profession. It appealed to a wide audience, including those within the medical field and the general public. Its success led to several sequels and adaptations, further cementing Richard Gordon's reputation as a master of medical comedy.

Adaptations

Following the success of the novel, Doctor in Love was adapted into a film in 1960, directed by Ralph Thomas and starring Michael Craig, Virginia Maskell, and Leslie Phillips. The film adaptation follows the main storyline of the book, with some changes to fit the cinematic format.

Legacy

Doctor in Love and the Doctor series have left a lasting impact on the genre of medical comedy. Richard Gordon's ability to blend humor with the realities of the medical profession has inspired subsequent generations of writers and filmmakers. The series remains a beloved part of British literary and comedic tradition.