This book presents a varied range of case studies and perspectives on the patterns, technologies and narratives of disease that can be identified in the past and that continue to influence our present. Chapters examine particular forms and conceptualizations of disease.

"Presents a varied range of case studies and perspectives on the patterns, technologies and narratives of disease that can be identified in the past and that continue to influence our present"--

"Encompassing an astonishing array of places, periods and pestilences, The Routledge History of Disease demonstrates indubitably how useful and fundamental disease is as a lens through which to view and understand human history. Essential reading for historians and health professionals alike." Matthew Smith, University of Strathclyde, UK "This book captures much of what has made the history of medicine one of the most innovative historical fields in recent decades. Its contributors respond to one of the key challenges posed to scholars in this field through case studies which are sweeping in chronology and geography and confidently demonstrate that medical knowledge is framed by the social, economic, political and cultural, and not merely biological factors." Jonathan Reinarz, University of Birmingham, UK