Rabelais and Changes in Renaissance Medicine

• Main Authors: Todd Neave, 唐德
• Other Authors: Spencer Lin
• Format: Others
• Language: en_US
• Published: 2016
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/cdzk2k

碩士 === 國立中央大學 === 英美語文學系 === 104 === Abstract The aim of this paper is an exploration of the writings of Rabelais in the context of Renaissance medical culture and the tradition behind that culture in pursuit of a far more radical interpretation of his grotesque imagery than has hitherto been offered. The Chronicles offer a unique opportunity for scholars of literature and historians of medicine to come together as it may be the only literary text written by a physician that uses satire as vehicle to freely and openly reflect on the state of his profession. This thesis begins with a brief introduction to the topic and then a short survey of the literature. These are followed by a historical survey of medical controversy to provide background. The main part of the thesis deals with Rabelais and the Chronicles in the context of the changing environment of pre-Vesalian medical culture. The paper posits possible influences of that culture on his writings and argues that the traditional portrayal of him as a medical conservative is probably an underestimation.