A Medical History of Persia and the Eastern Caliphate

by Elgood, Cyril

• ISBN13: 9781108015882
• ISBN10: 1108015883
• Edition: Revised
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2010-10-31
• Publisher: Cambridge Univ Pr

Summary

Published in 1951, this book presents a continuous history of the art and practice of medicine in Persia (Iran), from the earliest times to the twentieth century. Elgood's prefatory chapter defines the scope of the History, and informs the reader of his extensive resources - due to his knowledge of Persian and Arabic, he was able to study original manuscripts of medical historians in the Middle East. He also draws upon his own experiences, having lived and practised in Iran for many years. Packed with medical curiosities and little-known facts, the book describes the impact of Western medicine on Persia from the seventeenth century, and includes discussion of the status and lifestyle of women, and the high status and great influence of Persian doctors. Placing the story of medicine against the background of general Persian history, Elgood demonstrates the important part played by Persia in the world's history of medicine.

Table of Contents

Preface

From the earliest times to the death of Alexander

From the death of Alexander to the foundation of Islam

From the foundation of Islam to the death of the Caliph HÃírún-ul-Rashád

From the accession of al-Amán to the caliphate to the extinction of the Qurra family

The place of ophthalmology in Arabian medicine

The rise of the Buwayhid family

Avicenna and Rhazes

The Seljuqs and the last of the caliphs

Arabian medicine in theory

Arabian medicine in practice

The Mongol domination

The empire of Tamerlane

The Safavids

The East India Company in Persia

The early QÃíjÃírs

The mission of Sir John McNeill

The introduction of western medicine

The Sanitary Council and the Quarantine Service

The nationalization of the medical services

Arabic research and medicine

Index

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