Physicians, Plagues and Progress: The History of Western Medicine From Antiquity to Antibiotics

Since the dawn of time, man has sought to improve his health and that of his neighbour. The human race, around the world, has been on a long and complex journey, seeking to find out how our bodies work, and what heals them. Embarking on a four-thousand-year odyssey, science historian Allan Chapman brings to life the origin and development of medicine and surgery. Writing with pace and rigorous accuracy, he investigates how we have battled against injury and disease, and provides a gripping and highly readable account of the various victories and discoveries along the way. This is a fascinating, insightful read, enlivened with many colourful characters and memorable stories of inspired experimenters, theatrical surgeons, students pranks, body-snatchers, "mad-doctors", quacks, and charitable benefactors. "An elegant and accessible new introduction to the history of Western medicine." Caroline Rance, author of The History of Medicine in One Hundred Facts "This is medical history for the layman - and very good it is, too." Derek Wilson, historian "A comprehensive and highly compelling account" Dr Simon Atkins, author and medical practitioner "Fast-paced, insightful and engaging." Martyn Whittock, historian Allan Chapman teaches the history of science at the University of Oxford, and is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. His many other books include Slaying the Dragons - destroying myths in the history of science and faith; Stargazers: Copernicus, Galileo, the Telescope and the Church, (both published by Lion Hudson).Read less