The following is a concise summary of the text:
The text is about the life story of Joseph Merrick, also known as the Elephant Man, who was born in England in 1862 with severe deformities that made him look like an elephant. He suffered from bullying, poverty, and abandonment, but also showed courage, resilience, and ambition. He became a novelty act in a freak show, where he attracted the attention of a doctor named Frederick Treves, who examined him and helped him find a permanent home at London Hospital. He also became a celebrity among London's high society, and even met royalty. He died at the age of 27 from asphyxiation caused by his oversized head. The text ends with a poem that Merrick used to sign his letters, expressing his dignity and humanity.
Here are some key facts extracted from the text:
1. Joseph Carey Merrick was born in Leicester in 1862 and had a normal appearance until he developed severe deformities around the age of two.
2. He was known as the Elephant Man because of his large and sagging skin, bony growths, and trunk-like lips.
3. He became a novelty act in freak shows and toured England and Europe, where he faced curiosity, ridicule, and exploitation.
4. He was examined by Frederick Treves, a famous surgeon, who later helped him find a permanent home at London Hospital.
5. He died at the age of 27 from asphyxiation caused by the weight of his head.