Ancient Rome

Essential Information

1. The Romans had similar ideas to the Greeks and many Roman doctors were Greek. The Greek influence was a result of Greece becoming a part of the Roman Empire.

2. They had the same god of healing; Asklepios.

3. They also believed in the four humours.

4. Claudius Galen was an important Doctor he developed the theory of the opposites, where opposites were used to balance the humours for example hot baths to heal a cold.

5. Galen developed ideas about anatomy; his most famous experiment involved dissecting a pig to show how nerves carried messages around the body.

6. Galen wrote his ideas in over 100 books his influence lasted for over 1000 years.

7. The Romans developed a system of public health including aqueducts, baths, public toilets.

8. The need for public health was a result of Rome becoming a huge city. By giving other towns good public health there would be loyalty across the empire. They also needed healthy soldiers.

Revision Questions:

1. Why were the Romans influenced by Greek ideas?

2. How did Galen help medicine to progress?

3. Were there any aspects of anatomy that Galen got wrong?

4. List buildings that were part of the Roman Public Health system.

5. Why was a Public Health System developed?