Dissection in Classical Antiquity: A Social and Medical History

Dissection has a long history, from the fifth century BC to the second century AD, and has played a crucial role in the development of anatomical knowledge. Claire Bubb's book explores its material concerns and social contexts, from the anatomical subjects to the motivations and audiences of dissection, and its relationship to the development of anatomical literature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 412 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Dissection, a practice with a rich and ancient history, has played a pivotal role in the advancement of anatomical knowledge throughout the ages. This captivating book takes us on a journey back to classical antiquity, employing a diverse array of textual and material evidence to unravel the intricate details of this fascinating practice. Claire Bubb, in her insightful work, delves into the historical trajectory of dissection, spanning from the Hippocratic authors of the fifth century BC to the renowned figures of Aristotle, Herophilus, and Erasistratus, as well as the influential physician Galen in the second century AD. Bubb's focus lies in exploring the material aspects and social contexts of dissection, encompassing a wide range of topics. From the anatomical subjects—whether they be human or animal—and the methods employed to acquire them, to the motivations and audiences behind dissection, and its place within the intricate web of social contexts that shaped its reception, including butchery, sacrifice, and spectacle. The book concludes with a comprehensive examination of the relationship between dissection and the evolution of anatomical literature into Late Antiquity.

This captivating exploration of dissection offers a profound insight into the historical, social, and material dimensions of this ancient practice. Through meticulous research and analysis, Bubb has shed light on the intricate connections between dissection, anatomical knowledge, and the broader cultural and intellectual landscape of classical antiquity. The book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the history of medicine, anatomy, and the human body.

Weight: 684g
Dimension: 160 x 233 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009159470