Medieval Medicine Through Jewish Manuscripts

This module introduces the fundamental concepts of manuscripts and codices as historical evidence. Students explore the languages used in Jewish medical writing during the 15th century, with specific focus on Penn MS 1649 and its linguistic characteristics.

This module examines colophons in medieval manuscripts, focusing on Sa'īd b. Hibat Allāh's "All You Need to Manage Diseases." Students learn how these scribal notes reveal information about text transmission and the political context of Jewish medical manuscripts.

This module explores the physical characteristics and reference systems in "All You Need to Manage Diseases." Students examine how medieval physicians used these texts, evidenced through wear patterns and multilingual marginal notes.

This module examines Ibn Sīnā's "On Cardiac Drugs," exploring medieval understanding of cardiology and emotions. Students learn how medieval medicine integrated concepts of vital spirits and bodily functions.

This module analyzes Ibn Sīnā's treatments for emotional ailments, focusing on manuscript emendations and marginal glosses. Students learn how these details reveal linguistic shifts and social history of medieval Mediterranean medicine.

This module examines al-Majūsī's comprehensive medical textbook, focusing on scribal practices and translation norms. Students learn how variations in translation can reveal information about scribal origins.

This module explores the physical aspects of the manuscript, including covers, blank pages, and informal glossaries. Students learn how these paratextual elements provide insights into everyday medieval life and language.

This concluding module examines how manuscript corrections and annotations demonstrate the evolution and transmission of medical knowledge across medieval societies.