Anton Chekhov’s life was cut short by tuberculosis in 1904. To mark International Clinical Trials Day, Prof Neil Stoker wonders how the then-incurable disease may have affected Chekov’s creativity and worldview, and reflects on the medical advances made by clinical trials since.

The stage is set at the Almeida Theatre

Last week I exited a performance of The Three Sisters by Chekhov at Islington’s Almeida Theatre.  The theatre was originally built in 1833 for the Islington Literary and Scientific Society, and had housed a laboratory, library and lecture theatre.  Discussion of politics and religion were not allowed, something I think Chekhov might have approved of. (more…)