The natural association between the history of medicine and literature, has been insufficiently explored in spite of the mutual benefits of such an alliance. This collaboration is innate because medicine like literature is primarily concerned with pain and suffering, living and dying.
Medical experience is limited by time.
The purpose of this course is to explore writings from literature and the history of medicine by doctors, scientists, historians, and patients, examining where their conflation leads to an understanding of illness. The format will include voices from patients, guest doctors, and film. Students will summarize and discuss the readings.