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The consilia attributed to Arnau de Vilanova
1Universitat Autōnoma de Barcelona.
Early Science and Medicine
|March 26, 2004
Summary
This study examines four medical texts attributed to Arnau de Vilanova, confirming his authorship of two consilia while leaving two others unresolved. It analyzes the Galenic tradition in medieval medical practice and physician competition.
Area of Science:
- Medieval Medical History
- History of Science
- History of Medicine
Background:
- Explores the genre of consilia, medical texts detailing treatments for individual patients.
- Addresses the authenticity of four works attributed to Arnau de Vilanova within the 'Arnaldian question'.
Discussion:
- Presents evidence confirming Arnau de Vilanova's authorship of 'Regimen podagre' and 'Epistola ad Bremundum Montisferrarii'.
- Highlights the unresolved authorship of 'Regimen quartane' and 'Cura febris ethice'.
- Compares the prescribed cures in the consilia with the Galenic medical tradition.
Key Insights:
- Medieval university-trained physicians competed with other practitioners.
- Physicians utilized learned medicine doctrines to differentiate their practice.
- Analysis of consilia reveals the application of theoretical medicine to individual cases.
Outlook:
- Further research can clarify the authorship of the remaining disputed texts.
- Understanding these consilia offers insights into medieval medical practice and physician strategies.
- The study contributes to the broader understanding of the Galenic tradition's influence in the Middle Ages.