Review of The Virtuous Physician

[Blueberry Dragon]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Virtuous Physician" by Elliott B. Martin, Jr..]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Have you ever wondered about the origin of the Hippocratic Oath that doctors take in today’s postmodernist world? What is the history of the Oath? Is it still relevant today? To find answers to these questions and more, grab a copy of Elliott B. Martin Jr.’s "The Virtuous Physician" and read it today.

The book is conveniently divided into four chapters, with the major focus being on the first chapter, wherein the book Precepts has been translated from Greek into English, and its meaning has been discussed threadbare. The book has references to the original Greek texts of the original, and the author has also conveniently cross-referenced other translations (Jones and Littre). The author argues that this book (Precepts) forms the core of the Hippocratic corpus, that it was probably not written by an individual, and even if it was, then it was probably written by someone of Roman origin.

The book is thoroughly researched, as evinced by the extensive references and footnotes, though I felt that the book would have made for easier reading if some of the footnotes had been incorporated directly into the body of the text. The writing style of the book also did not seem consistent because the author seemed to write in a more informal manner as the book progressed. The book also occasionally meandered as the author sought to establish the role of Greek philosophy in the evolution of medicine.

However, these flaws did not take away from the authenticity of the book and the gravitas of its content. Also, the book was professionally edited, and I found few typos in it. There was nothing to dislike in the book, and I give it a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. This book is a must-read for medical practitioners and is also likely to appeal to students of history, philosophy, and religion, especially the classicists.

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The Virtuous Physician
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[Gerry Steen]

I answered yes to the first question, and I would like to know the answers to questions 2 and 3. I am grateful for the medical profession and want to understand how it came to become what it is today. Great review! I am adding this book to my bookshelves.

[Lene Lena]

I appreciate your insights on “The Virtuous Physician.” The detailed analysis of the first chapter and its translation of Precepts is indeed valuable. Your suggestion about integrating footnotes into the text for easier reading is constructive and could enhance accessibility for readers. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[Amy Luman]

I’m glad that you enjoyed this book. It’s good to see that there were not many errors in it to detract from the reading experience. I find the different interpretations of the original to be fascinating. Thanks!

[Blueberry Dragon]

I answered yes to the first question, and I would like to know the answers to questions 2 and 3. I am grateful for the medical profession and want to understand how it came to become what it is today. Great review! I am adding this book to my bookshelves.

Thank you for leaving a comment here @Gerry Steen. Do read the book if you get a chance and please do share your views.

[Blueberry Dragon]

Thank you for your kind words @Lene Lena and @Amy Luman. I'm glad you find the review useful.