Male Physicians, Female Practitioners: Medicine in the 19th Century

The field of medicine has undergone many changes throughout history. One of the most significant was the so-called “professionalization” of western medicine in the early 19th century. While medical professionals in the 17th and 18th centuries included midwives, surgeons, apothecaries, and physicians, the early 19th century saw the consolidation of the medical field and its evolution into a predominantly male profession. Historian Dr. Olivia Weisser (Associate Professor, UMass Boston) will provide an overview of health and wellness in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, and an academic perspective on the evolution of medicine. From humors to trepanation to at-home remedies, discover how medicine has changed over time, and where Governor William Eustis’ 18th century medical training fits in, at this hybrid event.

This is a brown bag lunch talk – you can either bring your own lunch to eat during the lecture or place an order through your Eventbrite reservation for an additional fee. PLEASE NOTE: All tickets including lunch must be purchased two days in advance of the event so that staff can place our order in time.

Questions? Contact programs@shirleyeustishouse.org or (617)-442-2275.

Co-sponsored by the Center for the History of Medicine, Countway Library, Harvard Medical School.