Dr. Treves finds Merrick in a "freak show". His appearance is so terrifying that he has to wear a loose garment so that no one can see his frightening growths all over his body. Taking Merrick to the hospital after another beating by his owner, Treves is surprised to find him to be an intellectually advanced and spiritual man. Professional interest is replaced by compassion, the phenomenon becomes fashionable in high society, and the queen herself blesses to keep him in the hospital forever.