Chapter 12

Appendix: The Ripper Correspondence: Mass Communication Dimensions of the Whitechapel Murders

Dirk C. Gibson

Abstract

The present study investigated the mass communication aspects of the Whitechapel crimes. The letters attributed to Jack the Ripper were gathered and analyzed, to determine the prevalent themes and rhetorical nature of this correspondence. It is concluded that the Ripper correspondence was characterized by certain content themes and stylistic traits. There was a clear element of class consciousness in the letters, as well as disrespect for the police and British establishment.

Total Pages: 184-209 (26)

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