Deviant by Harold Schechter: A Chilling Portrait of Serial Killer Ed Gein

Harold Schechter's "Deviant" delves into the chilling true story of Ed Gein, the notorious killer who inspired some of horror's most iconic fictional villains. This meticulously researched book chronicles Gein's life from his troubled childhood to his eventual capture, offering readers a glimpse into the mind of a real-life monster.

Schechter's compelling narrative explores the psychological factors and social conditions that may have contributed to Gein's descent into madness and murder. The author paints a vivid picture of rural Wisconsin in the 1950s, setting the stage for Gein's grotesque crimes and their impact on the small community of Plainfield.

"Deviant" stands out in the true crime genre for its thorough examination of Gein's case and its lasting influence on popular culture. Schechter's work provides valuable insights into criminal psychology while maintaining a respectful tone towards the victims and their families. This book offers readers a fascinating yet disturbing journey into one of America's most infamous criminal cases.

Author Background

Harold Schechter, a renowned true-crime writer, has made significant contributions to the genre through his extensive body of work. His career spans decades, during which he has chronicled some of America's most infamous criminal cases.

Harold Schechter's Career

Schechter served as a Professor of American Literature and Culture at Queens College for 42 years before becoming Professor Emeritus. His academic background provided a strong foundation for his writing career. Schechter's essays have appeared in prestigious publications like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Los Angeles Times.

As an author, he has written numerous books on true crime, focusing on historical cases and serial killers. His works include definitive accounts of notorious murderers, demonstrating his meticulous research and engaging storytelling style.

Influence in True-Crime Genre

Schechter's impact on the true-crime genre is substantial. He has been dubbed "America's principle chronicler of its greatest psychopathic killers" by The Boston Book Review. This recognition stems from his ability to blend historical context with psychological insights in his narratives.

His book "Deviant" explores the crimes of Ed Gein, whose story inspired classic horror films like Psycho and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Schechter's approach to true crime writing emphasizes factual accuracy while maintaining a compelling narrative structure. This combination has cemented his reputation as a respected historian in the field of true crime literature.

Ed Gein's Early Life

Ed Gein's childhood in rural Wisconsin shaped his disturbing future. His domineering mother and isolated upbringing laid the groundwork for his later crimes.

Upbringing in Wisconsin

Edward Theodore Gein was born on August 27, 1906, in La Crosse County, Wisconsin. He grew up on a farm in Plainfield, a small town with fewer than 700 residents. The Gein family lived an isolated existence, rarely interacting with neighbors or participating in community events.

Ed's father, George, was an alcoholic who struggled to maintain steady employment. His mother, Augusta, was a devoutly religious woman who instilled strict moral values in her sons. Ed had an older brother named Henry, born in 1901.

The family moved to a more secluded 195-acre farm outside Plainfield in 1914. This move further isolated the Gein children from social interactions and normal childhood experiences.

Relationship with Mother

Augusta Gein exerted an overwhelming influence on young Ed's life. She was a domineering presence who viewed the outside world with suspicion and contempt. Augusta preached to her sons about the evils of alcohol and the immorality of women.

Ed developed an unhealthy attachment to his mother. He rarely left her side and hung on her every word. Augusta discouraged Ed from forming friendships or romantic relationships, keeping him dependent on her.

When Ed's father and brother died in the 1940s, his isolation with Augusta intensified. Her death in 1945 devastated Ed, leaving him alone on the family farm. This loss likely triggered his descent into grave robbing and murder in the following years.

The Crimes of Ed Gein

Ed Gein's criminal activities in rural Wisconsin during the 1950s shocked the nation. His gruesome acts of grave robbery and murder became the inspiration for several iconic horror films and novels.

Grave Robberies

Gein's criminal behavior began with grave robbing. He exhumed numerous bodies from local cemeteries, primarily targeting recently deceased middle-aged women who resembled his mother. Gein collected body parts and created macabre objects from human remains.

He fashioned bowls from skulls, lampshades and chair covers from human skin, and a belt made of nipples. Gein also kept preserved vulvae in a shoebox and wore a vest made of a woman's torso.

These disturbing activities went undetected for years, allowing Gein to amass a grotesque collection in his dilapidated farmhouse.

Murder Cases

Gein's crimes escalated to murder in the mid-1950s. His first known victim was Mary Hogan, a tavern owner who disappeared in 1954. Gein later confessed to shooting her at her workplace.

In 1957, he killed Bernice Worden, a local hardware store owner. Her disappearance led to Gein's arrest when police found her body hanging upside down in his shed, decapitated and gutted like a deer.

These murders, combined with his grave robbing activities, cemented Gein's reputation as one of America's most depraved killers.

Psychopathology

Experts diagnosed Gein with schizophrenia and sexual psychopathy. His crimes stemmed from a deeply troubled psyche, heavily influenced by his domineering mother and social isolation.

Gein's obsession with his mother led to his attempts to create a "woman suit" to wear, allowing him to "become" his mother. This disturbing behavior reflected his confused gender identity and desire to change sexes.

His necrophilic tendencies and fascination with female anatomy drove his grave robberies and murders. Gein's case became a subject of intense study in criminal psychology.

Arrest and Trial

Police arrested Gein on November 16, 1957, after discovering Bernice Worden's body in his farmhouse. The subsequent search of his property revealed the full extent of his crimes.

Gein initially pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. He was found mentally incompetent to stand trial and spent a decade in a mental health facility.

In 1968, Gein was deemed competent and stood trial for Worden's murder. The jury found him guilty but legally insane. He spent the remainder of his life in psychiatric institutions until his death in 1984.

Cultural Impact

Harold Schechter's "Deviant" brought Ed Gein's horrific crimes into the public consciousness, leaving an indelible mark on American popular culture. The book's unflinching portrayal of Gein's actions inspired numerous works of fiction and film, cementing his place as an archetype of real-life horror.

Influence on Fiction and Film

"Deviant" played a crucial role in shaping iconic fictional characters. Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho" drew heavily from Gein's disturbing relationship with his mother and his penchant for grave robbing. The character of Buffalo Bill in "The Silence of the Lambs" mirrored Gein's creation of a "woman suit" from human skin. These films brought Gein-inspired characters to mainstream audiences, captivating and terrifying viewers worldwide.

The book's exploration of Gein's twisted psyche provided rich source material for writers and filmmakers. It helped establish a new subgenre of psychological horror focused on the depths of human depravity.

Association with Popular Horror

"Deviant" solidified Ed Gein's status as a touchstone in American horror. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre drew inspiration from Gein's grisly home decorations made from human remains. This connection further entrenched Gein in the public imagination as the quintessential bogeyman.

The book's detailed account of Gein's crimes became a reference point for true crime enthusiasts and horror aficionados alike. It sparked a fascination with the psychology of serial killers that persists in popular culture today.

Schechter's work helped blur the lines between fact and fiction in the horror genre, making real-world atrocities the basis for some of cinema's most enduring nightmares.

The Relevance of 'Deviant'

Harold Schechter's 'Deviant' remains a cornerstone in true-crime literature and psychopathic studies. The book's meticulous research and chilling detail provide valuable insights into the mind of Ed Gein and the impact of his crimes.

Place in True-Crime Literature

'Deviant' stands out in the true-crime genre for its comprehensive approach to Ed Gein's case. Schechter's work goes beyond sensationalism, offering a nuanced exploration of Gein's life and crimes.

The book's attention to historical context sets it apart. It examines Gein's actions within the framework of 1950s rural Wisconsin, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the environment that shaped him.

Schechter's writing style combines factual accuracy with narrative engagement. This balance makes 'Deviant' accessible to both true-crime enthusiasts and academic researchers.

Contribution to Psychopathic Studies

'Deviant' offers valuable contributions to the field of psychopathic studies. The book's in-depth analysis of Gein's psychology provides researchers with a detailed case study.

Schechter's work explores the roots of Gein's behavior, examining his family history and childhood experiences. This approach helps readers understand the complex factors that can contribute to the development of psychopathic tendencies.

The book also highlights the impact of Gein's crimes on popular culture. It traces how his actions inspired fictional characters like Norman Bates in 'Psycho' and Buffalo Bill in 'The Silence of the Lambs'.

'Deviant' serves as a reference point for understanding extreme criminal behavior. Its detailed account of Gein's crimes and motives continues to inform discussions on criminal psychology.

Publication and Reception

"Deviant" by Harold Schechter was released to critical acclaim and strong reader interest. The book's exploration of Ed Gein's crimes captivated audiences and garnered praise for its thorough research and compelling narrative.

Critical Acclaim

"Deviant" received positive reviews from literary critics upon its publication. The Boston Book Review hailed Schechter as "America's principal chronicler of its greatest psychopathic killers." Critics praised the author's meticulous research and his ability to present the disturbing subject matter in a respectful yet engaging manner.

Many reviewers noted Schechter's skill in reconstructing the events surrounding Ed Gein's crimes and the subsequent investigation. The book's historical context and psychological insights were particularly well-received.

Reader's Response

"Deviant" found a wide readership among true crime enthusiasts and those interested in criminal psychology. Readers appreciated Schechter's detailed account of Ed Gein's life and crimes, which provided the inspiration for several famous fictional characters.

Many readers commented on the book's ability to balance factual information with narrative storytelling. The disturbing nature of the subject matter did not deter readers, who found the book both informative and compelling.

Online reviews and discussions reflected a strong interest in the psychological aspects of Gein's case. Readers often cited "Deviant" as a definitive work on the topic, praising its comprehensive coverage and Schechter's writing style.

Formats and Editions

Deviant by Harold Schechter is available in multiple formats to suit different reading preferences. Readers can choose from traditional print editions or digital versions for convenient access.

Print Editions

Deviant was originally published as a hardcover in 1989. Pocket Books later released a trade paperback edition, making the book more accessible to a wider audience. The paperback measures 5.5 x 0.7 x 8.4 inches and contains 256 pages.

This true crime classic has been reprinted several times over the years, ensuring its continued availability in bookstores and libraries. The cover design may vary between editions, but the content remains the same gripping account of Ed Gein's crimes.

Digital Access: Ebooks and Audiobooks

For those who prefer digital formats, Deviant is available as an ebook. Readers can purchase and download it instantly to their preferred e-reader devices or apps. The ebook offers features like adjustable text size and searchable content.

An audiobook version of Deviant also exists, allowing listeners to experience Schechter's chilling narrative. This format is ideal for multitasking or for those who enjoy having books read to them. The audiobook brings the story to life through professional narration.

Conclusion

Harold Schechter's "Deviant" offers a comprehensive exploration of Ed Gein's life and crimes. The book meticulously details Gein's troubled upbringing and descent into darkness.

Schechter's thorough research and compelling narrative style bring the shocking true story to life. He presents a balanced view of Gein, neither sensationalizing nor excusing his actions.

The cultural impact of Gein's case is evident in its influence on popular fiction and film. Characters like Norman Bates and Buffalo Bill draw inspiration from his disturbing deeds.

"Deviant" serves as both a true crime account and a study of human psychology. It delves into the factors that may contribute to the development of a killer.

Schechter's work remains a significant contribution to the true crime genre. It provides valuable insights into one of America's most infamous criminals and his lasting legacy in popular culture.