After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal Burke & Hare: Scotland’s Most Notorious Serial Killers
Oct 16, 2023
Dive into the chilling tale of Burke and Hare, Scotland's infamous duo, who escalated from body snatchers to murderers to meet the demands of medical schools in 19th century Edinburgh. Learn about their shocking methods, the public outrage that followed, and how their crimes exposed the dark side of the anatomy trade. Discover the impact of their actions, leading to legal reforms and a morbid legacy that endures in culture today. This gripping narrative unveils the complexities of morality and desperation in a time of scientific progress.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Murder Driven By Medical Demand
- Burke and Hare killed people to supply anatomists because legal cadavers were scarce and valuable.
- Their crimes exposed how medical progress depended on an illicit body trade and classed access to remains.
Anatomy Shortages Created An Illicit Market
- Edinburgh became a centre for anatomy and couldn't legally supply enough corpses for teaching.
- That shortage created an illicit industry connecting grave robbers and medical practitioners.
Big Money Lured The Poor
- Grave robbers earned huge sums for fresh bodies, sometimes equivalent to many weeks' wages.
- The money made body-snatching economically irresistible for poor workers.
