This work is a sampling of the Hippocratic Corpus, a collection of ancient Greek medical works. At the beginning, and interspersed throughout, there are discussions on the philosophy of being a physician. There is a large section about how to treat limb fractures, and the section called The Nature of Man describes the physiological theories of the time. The book ends with a discussion of embryology and a brief anatomical description of the heart.
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Ancient Book that Remains Relevant:
For a book compiled in the 4th/3rd centuries B.C. it is interesting (but not surprising) how relevant this book remains, for sickness and the effort to heal are enduring aspects of the human condition. "The Oath" at the beginning sets out some basic precepts, including: "I will not give a fatal draught to anyone if I am asked, nor will I suggest such a thing. Neither will I give a woman means to procure an abortion." "I will be chaste and religious in my life and in my practice." There is an... more info
Taste of Ancient Western Medicine:
This work is a sampling of the Hippocratic Corpus, a collection of ancient Greek medical works. Hippocrates himself may have written some, but certainly not all, of the texts. The collection spans centuries and contains slightly differing views. This makes for a fuller picture of ancient Greek medicine. As one reads through the book, the reader gets a real sense of the medical theories and "facts" of the time. A majority of Hippocratic Writings is concerned with internal medicine and diseases. At the... more info
