Letters of a Lunatic A Brief Exposition of My University Life, During the Years 1853-54

"Letters of a Lunatic" by G. J. Adler is a collection of letters recounting the author's hardships at the University of the City of New-York in the 1850s. Through a series of personal letters, Adler narrates a story of alleged persecution, unfair treatment, and a personal struggle against accusations of mental instability and confinement, stemming from conflicts with university staff over his academic views. He also discusses the impact of his views on the people around him, while expressing his frustration with the moral issues of the academic institutions of the time. Themes explored are academic freedom, individual rights, and the complexities of mental health accusations. The letters provide a glimpse into Adler's fight to defend his reputation alongside a critique of the institutional climate and public values of his era.