Complete Record - Heirs of Hippocrates No. 1190

JOHN BELL (1763-1820) Letters on professional character and manners . . . addressed to James Gregory, M.D. Printed by John Moir 1810 xxiii [1] 636 pp. 21.5 cm.

For more information on this author or work, see number: 1186

Although Bell studied at Edinburgh under such eminent teachers as William Cullen (see No. 901 ff.), Alexander Monro secundus (see No. 1010), and Alexander Wood (1725-1807), he nevertheless felt that anatomy was poorly taught at the University. Therefore, after entering practice, Bell began to give private lectures in anatomy primarily for surgeons. His lectures became so popular and so many students were attracted that he built an anatomical school to accommodate his classes. After teaching successfully for thirteen years, he was suddenly subjected to a vicious and apparently unwarranted attack led by James Gregory (see No. 1118), professor of the practice of medicine at the University. All Edinburgh was torn by this bitter and acrimonious feud, and, as a result, Bell discontinued his lectures and devoted himself to a large and successful surgical practice. Some ten years later, Bell published the present work in rebuttal to Gregory's malicious attacks. The book demonstrates Bell's highly polished skill in nonmedical prose and is filled with invective and righteous indignation resulting from a decade of controversy and professional strife. Ever the gentleman, Bell deftly castigates Gregory while at the same time presenting the principles and ideals which he espoused in the practice of medicine.

See Related Record(s): 901 1010 1118

Cited references: Cushing B273; Garrison-Morton 1765; Osler 2001; Waller 864

Gift of John Martin, M.D.