Dr. Benway

Benway is the name of a character in many of William S. Burroughs' novels, including Naked Lunch. Usually referred to as "Dr. Benway" or "Doc Benway," (his first name is not revealed), he was used by the author to parody the medical profession and, perhaps, the misuses of science in general. More of a maverick surgical artist than a doctor, Benway lacks a conscience and is more interested in his performance (and his next fix) than his patients' well-being. Benway is a manipulator and coordinator of symbolic systems, an expert on all phases of interrogation, brainwashing and control. He is also a master of disguise and gender ambiguity, playing the role of 'mild mannered doctor' stateside, whilst simultaneously maintaining the persona of 'Fadela- the bitch queen', leading a cadre of lesbian lovers in the Medina and puppeteering a drug network.

In the 1991 film adaptation of Naked Lunch, Benway was portrayed by Roy Scheider.

Internet persona

The character and name was appropriated for what was perhaps the first online persona ever recognized. This virtual character posted on the Community Memory BBS, the first electronically accessible Bulletin board system.^[1]

References

1. ^ Community Memory Project, 1972-74, at The WELL, including information about Benway