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Galen: On the Properties of Foodstuffs

Galen: <I>On the Properties of Foodstuffs</I>

Galen: <I>On the Properties of Foodstuffs</I>

Real author:
Galen
Published:
June 2007
Availability:
Available
Format:
Paperback
ISBN:
9780521036207

Looking for an examination copy?

This title is not currently available for examination. However, if you are interested in the title for your course we can consider offering an examination copy. To register your interest please contact collegesales@cambridge.org providing details of the course you are teaching.

    Until recently an English translation of Galen's On the Properties of Foodstuffs did not exist. This work, by one of the greatest of ancient physicians, provides a lucid description of the ways in which foods were thought to affect the body and were in turn affected by it. It contains revealing fragments of social comment. A retired physician with a particular interest in gastroenterology, Owen Powell offers the most accurate translation of the work currently available, including the first detailed introduction, commentary and discussion of terminology.

    • A most accurate translation of this fascinating work
    • An extensive introduction to and commentary on the work
    • Discussion of the medical aspects of the work illuminated by the specialized knowledge and experience of an expert in gastroenterology

    Reviews & endorsements

    "On closing this book I realized that Powell had successfully accomplished an extraordinary feat. He had allowed me to travel effortlessly back in time and savor not only the genius of Galen, but the rich experience our forebears had gained in respect of the medicinal properties of foods," Gastroenterology

    "Galen would undoubtedly be most satisfied with Powell's rendition of his legacy. I urge you to savor it yourself." Gastroenterology

    "Powell brings the specifics of anatomy and physiology, coupled with a sensitivity that a physician can bring to an ancient medical text." Classic World, John Scarborough, University of Wisconsin

    See more reviews

    Product details

    June 2007
    Paperback
    9780521036207
    236 pages
    228 × 150 × 8 mm
    0.354kg
    1 table
    Available

    Table of Contents

    • Foreword John Wilkins
    • Preface
    • Acknowledgements
    • Introduction
    • Galen's medical and scientific terminology
    • Translation
    • Commentary
    • Appendix I. List of plants
    • Appendix II. List of fishes
    • Ancient sources
    • References
    • Index.
    • Galen
    • John Wilkins , University of Exeter

      John Wilkins is Reader in Greek Literature at the University of Exeter and has written or edited several books on food in antiquity. He is currently producing an edition of Galen's De alimentorum facultatibus for the Budé series of classical texts.

    • Editor and translator
    • Owen Powell , University of Queensland

      Owen Powell is an Honorary Research Fellow in the Department of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Queensland and a retired physician.