March 9, 2009 | 3 comments

Anatomy Lessons through the Ages

Medical books from centuries past give a glimpse into the science of yore, thanks to the National Library of Medicine

By Laura Massey

< Prev 8 of 10 Next >

CLICK TO ENLARGE + National Library of Medicine

1556: Anatomia del corpo humano, by Juan Valverde de Amusco

Juan Valverde de Amusco, a member of Eustachi's anti-Vesalian milieu, published Historia de la composicion del cuerpo humano in 1556. Plagiarism was rife during the first centuries of printing, and most of the illustrations were copies of Andreas Vesalius's work. Redone as copperplate engravings, many were altered to deemphasize radical ideas or were simply distorted through poor copying. One of the only unique illustrations, the Flayed Man holding a Dagger and His Own Skin, may have been influenced by Michelangelo's Saint Bartholomew in the Last Judgment. It is also reminiscent of the myth of Marsyas, a mortal who challenged Apollo to a musical duel and, after loosing, was flayed alive. This myth was used throughout the 16th century to justify the dissection of executed criminals, which was seen as part of their punishment and a path to redemption.

< Prev 8 of 10 Next >

More to Explore

Related Article
Slide Show: Anatomy Lessons Through the Ages

Read Comments (3) | Post a comment

You Might Also Like

Discuss This Article

Click here to submit your comment.

VIEW:



	Email:
	Name:
	Address:
	Address 2:
	City:
	State:

Subscription Center

World Changing Ideas

Video ContestInnovation is the key to a better future. Enter your own World Changing Ideas videos in our contest.

Editor's Pick

Time to Ban Production of Nuclear Weapons MaterialA new global treaty that cuts off production of plutonium and highly enriched uranium for nuclear weapons could jump-start nuclear disarmament and help prevent proliferation