PH/HU360 - The Legacy of scientific inquiry and the practice of medicine in Italy from the Medieval period to the modern era

In this course, we delve into the rich evolution of the practice of medicine and science in Italy. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, we analyze the philosophical notions of the body, mind, and soul, tracing such practice back to the ancient world, then examine how Arabic, Jewish, and Christian scholars integrated Classical teachings into their own worldview as advances were then made through empirical research. As Europe's population rose from the 11th to 13th centuries, the role of universities and hospitals as providers of health and social services grew in prominence. Using primary and secondary sources, we can explore the impact of historical pandemics like the Black Death and analyze how they informed the development of medicine and public health regulations, paving the way for the Enlightenment. Embarking on a journey from humoral theory to an increasingly scientific understanding of how the human body functions, we investigate how the art of medicine transformed into a rigorous science, one that, however, never ceased to be an art.

This course also extends beyond the classroom, taking full advantage our location with multiple course-related trips to bring the historical significance of past medical practices and institutions into vivid focus. In addition to visits to numerous Sienese sites (its ancient hospital, current voluntary medical services, and university museums), we will travel to Florence and either Bologna or Padua to further our discussion of the scholastic tradition and see intriguing collections of anatomical waxworks, then delve into physiological advancements by visiting a 16th-century university anatomical theater.

This course is required of all students enrolled in the Siena Biomedical Technology program and is held during the first month of the program prior to the start of courses at the University of Siena.