CLAS 3239 | Ancient Medicine: The Classical Roots of the Medical Humanities: News and Announcements Archive

From the days of the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates until the advent of modern medical research in the nineteenth century, the theory of the four humours profoundly shaped concepts and practices in Western medicine. This presentation will explore the origins of humoural theory, its theoretical basis and development through the centuries, and its application by physicians from the time of the Greeks onward. We will also examine why this theory, with its flawed premises (what in the world, after all, is ‘black bile’?) and potential perils to health, was so influential and enduring through the centuries.

An article which discusses the idea of "fetal personhood" and its role in both ancient and modern discussions concerning women's reproductive rights.

Article from 'Brain Pickings' website about how stress, memories, and trauma can impact the human immune system. The article draws parallels with ideas about psychosomatic interactions in ancient Greek, Roman, and Ayurvedice medicine.

An article by Helen King (Prof. of Classical Studies at The Open University) on the sustained relevance of the study of ancient Greek medicine.

An article which shows how medical documents, from ancient Greece to the present day, have often used marginalizing and derogatory rhetoric in reference to menstruation and other processes associated with the female body.

A New York Times article that discusses the discovery of a new part of a treatise by Galen. This discovery is a testament to just how alive and well the field of ancient medicine is today!

An article from the online journal Eidolon on the dietary program proposed by the Hippocratics, and how the name of Hippocrates is used (and often misrepresented) in our time to promote different eating fads. One element that has remained consistent from ancient times to now is the obsession with diet.

An article which examines the relationship that exists between creative genius and mental illness--a seemingly longstanding connection discussed in medical texts as ancient as pseudo-Aristotle's 'Problema 30.1'. (see https://brooklyn.libapps.com/libguides/admin_c.php?g=298667&p=2038609)