The Elements of Murder

In this seminar we will use history, fiction, and science to explore the dark and deadly associations of some chemical elements. Mercury, arsenic, antimony, lead, and thallium are notorious as causes of accidental death and as instruments of murder. Readings will include The Elements of Murder, by John Emsley; Beethoven's Hair: An Extraordinary Historical Odyssey and a Scientific Mystery Solved by Russell Martin; The Pale Horse by Agatha Christie, and Strong Poison by Dorothy L. Sayers. Students will lead discussions of these readings and of films based on the fictional works. We will also spend some time in the lab using forensic techniques to identify and measure toxic elements. 3 hrs. sem./disc./lab/screen.