Classics notes Q&A

Who was Celsus?

A Roman writer from the middle of the first century CE.

What is the main surviving work of Celsus?

On Medicine (De Medicina).

What are the three major divisions of medicine according to Celsus?

Regimen, Pharmacology, Surgery.

What does the division 'Regimen' include?

Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise.

Why is surgery considered a 'last resort' according to Celsus?

Due to its associated risks and pain.

What does Celsus emphasize about surgery?

It is crucial when needed, despite regimen and pharmacology being safer.

What types of conditions does Celsus focus on for surgical procedures?

Traumatic combat wounds and eye diseases, especially cataracts.

How does Celsus define surgery?

As 'that which treats by the hand.'

Which historical figure does Celsus attribute surgical advancement to?

Hippocrates.

What is a significant challenge in removing projectiles according to Celsus?

Weapons can be barbed, making extraction complicated.

What are the two main extraction methods for removing weapons?

Pulling the weapon out from the entry point or pushing it through if deeply embedded.

What does Celsus mention as important when handling wounds?

Assessing the depth of penetration and its location in relation to major blood vessels and tendons.

What specialized tools does Celsus mention for incising flesh?

Scalpels.

What criteria does Celsus outline for evaluating cataracts?

Treatable if small, stationary, and exhibiting specific colors; poor prognosis if large or irregular.

What are the pre-operative requirements for cataract surgery according to Celsus?

Fasting for the patient.

What is emphasized in the surgical setting for cataract surgery?

Optimal lighting and patient immobilization.

What type of care does Celsus discuss for post-operative recovery?

Diet management and inflammation control.

What do inscriptions reveal about ancient beliefs in healing?

They serve as testaments to healing and divine intervention.

What religious beliefs influenced ancient Persian medicine?

Predominantly Zoroastrianism, as well as Buddhism, Hinduism, and others.

How did Zoroastrianism view health and disease?

Health is a gift from Ahura Mazda; illness arises from Angra Mainyu's disruptions.

What role did priests play in ancient Persian healing practices?

They functioned predominantly as healers.

Who is considered a significant healing deity in Persian culture?

Ahura Mazda.

What was the primary source of texts on Persian medicine?

Arabic translations of Old and Middle Persian.

What is Sushruta Samhita?

A significant medical text attributed to Sushruta, covering numerous medical topics.

What does Ayurveda emphasize?

Restoring balance among body, mind, and environment.

What are the three humors in Ayurvedic medicine?

Bile, phlegm, and wind.

What did the Sushruta Samhita replace?

Supernatural beliefs with rational medicine.

What was a key aspect of healing practices in ancient Indian medicine?

A blend of natural remedies and magical incantations.

What does the Yin and Yang theory explain in Chinese medicine?

The relationship between health and the balance of these forces.

How did ancient Chinese medicine categorize ailments?

Diseases associated with divine displeasure and natural patterns.

What was a significant development in medicine during the Han dynasties?

Establishment of medical schools and early hospitals.

What does acupuncture involve?

Using needles and moxibustion on acupoints to treat ailments.

What was the primary focus of female health treatments in antiquity?

Remedies predominantly for reproductive issues.

What is one of the common contraceptive plants mentioned in ancient texts?

Silphium.

How did Greek and Roman laws differ regarding abortion?

Greek law often focused on fathers' rights, while Roman law outlined punitive measures.

How did female healers in antiquity learn their practices?

Primarily through observation and experience rather than formal education.

What role did the midwives play in society according to ancient texts?

They possessed unique knowledge of herbs and childbirth rituals.

What key transition happened in Alexandrian medicine?

A shift away from supernatural explanations for disease.

Who are noted figures associated with Alexandrian Medicine?

Herophilus and Erasistratus.

What significant contributions did Herophilus make?

Identified distinct organ functions and introduced anatomical terminology.

What does the concept of Maat represent in Ptolemaic culture?

Balance and order.

How did healing practices during the Ptolemaic era blend cultural traditions?

By reflecting a mix of traditional Pharaonic practices and Hellenistic influences.

What new techniques in Alexandrian medicine became a key development?

Dissection and vivisection practices.