Hippocrates' cases

The medical writings ascribed to Hippocrates cover a range of topics, from the environment considered most healthy to the human constitution. The course covers some fascinating features of Greek medicine, and focuses on a selection of case histories.

» Be the first to write a review.

» View full course outline

Key course information

Date
03/12/11

Day(s)
Sat

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £37
Senior fee: £23
Concession: £11

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

» View location

Course code
HH113

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

» Find another course in Humanities » Search all courses

Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

This is a course about Greek medicine from the later 5th century B.C., based on the writings ascribed to Hippocrates of Cos, in terms of reputation perhaps the greatest individual in the history of medicine. Greek physicians of the time brought about a revolution in medicine: they established medicine as a distinct profession based on the systematic study of health and disease.

What topics will we cover?

The function of doctors in ancient Greek society is introduced and discussed with reference to their qualification to practise in a society so very different from our own, where midwives and traditional healers competed for custom and cures were almost universally elusive. We look at the place of tradition in Greek medicine and home in on a number of specific cases drawn from a physician’s case notes. We examine the importance accorded to the environment in the maintenance of health, the place of preventative medicine, and the significance of Hippocrates’ text on Prognosis (being able to tell how an illness will develop and explain the significance of symptoms).

By the end of this course you should be able to:

explain the value of the study of early Greek medicine in the modern world;
identify the differences between ancient and modern philosophies of medicine;
describe how Greek physicians working along Hippocratic lines worked with their patients;
evaluate the sources available for understanding ancient medicine.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is open to anyone with an interest and enthusiasm for the subject. No prior knowledge is necessary, although experience in this field should help you to appreciate the subject even more. The course provides opportunities to study a selection of both primary and secondary source material. There are opportunities to discuss differing interpretations of historical evidence and other issues and problems. Throughout the course you will be encouraged to develop study and research skills, and to express your ideas with confidence.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The sessions during the day involve the tutor leading in with a prepared talk. These are illustrated with slides. There is ample opportunity for discussion and questions. As the course progresses you may wish to play a greater part in learning by presenting an aspect of our course to the group or by taking part in discussion. The course is accompanied by a prepared handout providing selected sources, discussion questions and additional bibliography.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please bring pen and paper.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Another course from the 'Ancient history' section.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.