Medicine in Ancient Egypt

3 Credits.

A survey of medicine and medical practice in Egypt and, to a much lesser extent, the ancient Near East in general. The abundant sources range from magical spells to surprisingly "scientific" treatises and handbooks. Readings are mainly selected from translations of primary sources in the writings of ancient Egypt. Topics will include the sources of our knowledge; the nature and position of medical practitioners, medical treatment, and surgery; beliefs about disease and the etiology of illness; concepts of contagion and ritual purity.