How to Be Healthy

“This book excels in revealing how very modern the ancient world was in some respects, and yet how delightfully different in many other ways… .[A] most enjoyable book.”—David Smith, Classics For All“Dr Van Schaik’s book is a valuable contribution. The introduction is very well written and informative, especially for those unfamiliar with Galen and ancient Greek Medicine. It details Galen’s early life and medical training, including a graphic description of his appointment, by the chief priest, as physician to the gladiators in Pergamum. It will be particularly useful to medical students and is highly recommended.”—Spyros Retsas, British Society for the History of Medicine”[A] fascinating book.”—Paul Kane, Jildy Sauce“An enjoyable introduction to some of Galen’s ideas about health… . It is always a pleasure to read what ancient authors have to say in their own words, and let’s hope Van Schaik continues to bring ancient writings about health to a more general audience. Readers new to Galen should get a lot out of this book, as should those looking for fresh translations of some well-known passages.”—Konstantine Panegyres, Bryn Mawr Classical Review

Katherine D. Van Schaik completed a PhD in ancient history at Harvard University while earning an MD with honors at Harvard Medical School. She is a practicing physician and a member of the faculty at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and in the Department of Classical and Mediterranean Studies at Vanderbilt University.