The Prince of Medicine

In The Prince of Medicine, Susan Mattern presents the first comprehensive English biography of Galen of Pergamum, a monumental figure in the history of medicine. Starting as a physician for gladiators, he later became a distinguished court doctor for Emperor Marcus Aurelius, contributing extensively to various fields, including medicine and philosophy. Galen's legacy endured for centuries, with his works shaping medical education from the Roman Empire through the Renaissance. This biography captures his complex personality, marked by ambition and innovation, set against the backdrop of ancient Rome's vibrant society.