The History of Western Medicine: Antiquity to the Enlightenment

(4 Credits)

The history of medicine and medical thought, from the ancient Mediterranean world to the end of the eighteenth century. Covers basic questions and concepts in the history of medicine; the varied historical relationships between medicine and other healing practices such as religion and alchemy; the influence of culture and politics on the development of medical thought; and the relationship between disease and society. By the end of the course, students will understand how the intertwined histories of professional and popular medical practices emerged as part of a dynamic historical practice rather than a steady succession of discoveries and improvements.