John Green, the bestselling author of The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska, is known for his ability to weave deep, emotional narratives that resonate with readers. However, one recurring theme in his work and public discussions is tuberculosis (TB). This might seem like an unusual fixation for a novelist and YouTube personality, but Green’s interest in TB runs deeper than mere curiosity—it’s a mix of historical fascination, personal investment, and a drive to raise awareness about a disease that still affects millions worldwide.
In this article, we’ll explore John Green’s deep connection to tuberculosis, why it appears so often in his work, and how he has used his platform to educate the public about this deadly disease.
John Green’s Fascination with Tuberculosis
John Green’s interest in tuberculosis is neither random nor incidental. He has often discussed TB in his books, videos, and social media posts. The disease appears in multiple works of literature, history, and science, making it a natural point of interest for a writer like Green, who thrives on complex and layered storytelling.
Green’s fascination with TB can be traced back to his love for history. Tuberculosis has been one of the most significant diseases in human history, shaping literature, art, and even social structures. From the Romantic poets to 19th-century operas, TB has left an indelible mark on culture. Green, who frequently discusses literary history, naturally finds himself drawn to the disease’s narrative significance.
Additionally, Green’s personal experiences with illness and anxiety may contribute to his focus on TB. As someone who has been open about his struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and health anxiety, he often fixates on medical conditions. TB, with its long history and persistent global impact, is a disease that offers both intellectual and emotional engagement.
Tuberculosis in John Green’s Works
One of the most direct references to tuberculosis in Green’s work comes from The Fault in Our Stars. While the novel primarily focuses on cancer, the character Augustus Waters dies from an aggressive form of osteosarcoma, a disease that, like TB, has long been associated with suffering and mortality. Green has spoken about the historical parallels between cancer and TB, both of which were once seen as "romantic" diseases that shaped cultural perceptions of death and illness.
In his videos on the Vlogbrothers YouTube channel, Green has repeatedly brought up TB, discussing its history, treatment, and societal impact. In one particularly memorable episode of The Anthropocene Reviewed, his podcast-turned-book, Green reviewed the disease itself, giving it a surprisingly high rating—an indication of his deep, albeit grim, fascination with it.
The Historical and Cultural Significance of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis has played a massive role in shaping human history. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The disease, often called “consumption” at the time, was romanticized in literature and art. Writers like Edgar Allan Poe and Emily Brontë died from TB, and many of their works reflected themes of suffering and loss associated with the disease.
The 19th-century fascination with tuberculosis led to a strange cultural phenomenon: the idea of the "beautiful death." Sufferers of TB were often depicted as pale, delicate, and tragically poetic. This perception influenced literature, music, and even fashion, with some people striving to achieve the gaunt look associated with TB patients.
While TB is no longer romanticized, it remains a significant global health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tuberculosis is one of the top infectious disease killers, with millions of new cases every year.
John Green’s Advocacy for TB Awareness
John Green doesn’t just discuss tuberculosis out of curiosity—he actively works to raise awareness about the disease. Through his platform, he has educated millions of viewers about TB’s ongoing impact, particularly in low-income countries.
One of the most significant ways Green has contributed to TB awareness is through his support of Partners In Health, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing medical care in impoverished areas. Green has used his social media influence to encourage donations and support for TB treatment initiatives.
Additionally, his educational YouTube channel, CrashCourse, has covered TB in its history and science episodes, helping to inform a new generation about the disease’s impact.
Why Tuberculosis Still Matters Today
While many in the Western world think of tuberculosis as a disease of the past, it remains a pressing global issue. TB is still one of the top ten causes of death worldwide, and antibiotic-resistant strains are making it even more difficult to treat.
One of the biggest challenges in fighting TB is the stigma associated with it. In many countries, people with TB face discrimination and isolation. Green’s discussions about the disease help to break down these stigmas, encouraging people to view TB as a solvable medical problem rather than a personal failing.
Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown how vulnerable public health systems can be. Many TB programs suffered setbacks due to the redirection of medical resources, making awareness and funding even more critical.
The Intersection of Literature, Medicine, and Storytelling
John Green’s focus on tuberculosis isn’t just about medical facts—it’s about storytelling. Disease, suffering, and resilience are deeply human experiences, and Green is a master at weaving these themes into his work. By discussing TB, he connects past and present, fiction and reality, science and art.
His ability to make complex topics engaging and emotionally resonant is why so many people follow his work. Whether he’s talking about TB in a historical context or discussing its modern impact, Green brings a unique perspective that blends empathy with intellectual curiosity.
For John Green, tuberculosis isn’t just a historical footnote—it’s a lens through which he explores the world. His discussions about TB reveal his deep engagement with history, literature, and public health. Through his books, YouTube videos, and advocacy, he has helped educate millions about a disease that, despite medical advancements, still affects millions of people worldwide.
In the end, Green’s fascination with TB is more than just an obsession—it’s a mission. Whether through storytelling or activism, he continues to shine a light on an often-overlooked global health issue. And for him, it’s tuberculosis all the way down.