Women's Bodies in Ancient Greek Science [Paperback]

In this book, Dean-Jones gives a close analysis of theories concerning women's bodies in such authors as the Hippocratics and Aristotle. She demonstrates the centrality of menstruation in classical theories of female physiology, pathology, and reproduction, and suggests that this had both negative and positive repercussions in attitudes towards women's bodies in that society. Many of the primary sources dealt with are not yet accessible in English, therefore, her book is important in assembling and presenting both original texts as well as her research on the texts.

This is an informative work which makes a significant contribution not only to the history of Greek medicine, but also to our understanding of the place and role of women in Greek society...an enlightening study which will be of interest both to students of medical history and of social anthropology in its ancient Greek context. --The Greek Gazette

Fascinating and closely-argued study....The introduction sets out a concise and valuable guide for non-specialists. --The Classical Review