The House of God

The House of God: A Critical Examination of Medical Training

Samuel Shem, author of The House of God

The House of God is a novel of satirical nature written by Samuel Shem (the pen name of psychiatrist Stephen Bergman). First published in 1978, the novel has since become a seminal work in medical literature, known for its critique of the medical training system.

Background and Publication

The novel is set in the early 1970s and follows a group of medical interns at a fictional hospital, based on Beth Israel Hospital in Boston. The story is said to reflect Bergman's own experiences during his medical internship.

Beth Israel Hospital, the inspiration for the setting of The House of God

Plot and Themes

The House of God details the journey of Dr. Roy Basch and his fellow interns as they navigate through the grueling year of residency. It exposes the psychological and emotional challenges faced by medical interns, highlighting themes of humanism, ethics, and the dehumanization often seen in the healthcare system.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, the novel was met with mixed reactions. The New York Times described it as "raunchy, troubling, and hilarious." However, its explicit content and stark portrayal of the medical profession were deemed scandalous by some at the time.

Legacy and Influence

Despite initial controversy, The House of God has gained a cult following and is considered a must-read in many medical circles. It has played a significant role in discussions about improving medical education and patient care, influencing the push towards more humane training methods.

See Also

• Medical education
• Psychological stress in medical training

External Links

• Samuel Shem's Official Website
• New England Journal of Medicine: Reflections on The House of God

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