Modelled on Archigenes 'theiotatos': Alexander of Tralles and his use of natural remedies (physika)

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Abstract

In contrast to other Late Antique medical authors, Alexander of Tralles uses the epithet theiotatos (most divine) when referring to Archigenes. This appellation becomes even more significant if one considers that Alexander otherwise only applies it to Hippocrates and Galen. Since the majority of Alexander’s mentions of Archigenes stress his recommendation of popular healing practices, which most medical authors excluded from their work, I argue that for Alexander Archigenes was a model of a well-known ancient medical authority who chose to make consistent use of natural remedies (physika).
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)382-396
Number of pages15
JournalMnemosyne: A Journal of Classical Studies
Volume69
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 7 May 2016

Keywords

  • Archigenes
  • Alexander of Tralles
  • natural remedies/physika
  • popular/folk medicine
  • late antique medicine
  • reception studies

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