OLD ANATOMICAL THEATRES AND WHAT TOOK PLACE THEREIN

Abstract

IN the development of medical teaching through the centuries, the history of the anatomical theatre has a particular importance. It is closely connected not only with the history of medicine and of teaching, but also with the history of art. The theatre arose out of the stream of ideas which flowed through Italy at the time of the Renaissance. Its purpose was to offer a performance, for as we shall see, an anatomical dissection in those days was really more of a theatrical occasion than a lesson. The outstanding personalities and authorities of the town were invited to be present. It was the first laboratory, the first place where scientific research was carried out.