De elementis secundum Hippocratem, late 13th century
Contents
Ff. 115-125 contains the Latin translation of the Galenic De elementis secundum Hippocratem. As the title indicates, this short treatise is on the elements, according to Hippocrates. The ancient and medieval theory of elements is a cornerstone of medieval physiology, as it is the foundation of the 'humours' in medical theory. This theory that persisted in medieval medicine from the ancient Greek period believed that human health (and beyond) came from the right balance of four 'humours', which corresponded with the four 'elements': earth, air, fire, water. This theory is attributed first to Hippocrates, and Galen added to it throughout his career and written works. The De elementis secundum Hippocratem was initially translated from Ancient Greek into Arabic by the 9th-century physician and scholar, Hunayn. The Latin translation of the Arabic is attributed to Gerard of Cremona in several other manuscripts, and it is noted in a list of his works compiled by his students after his death.
The text of De elementis secundum Hippocratem begins on f. 115r: Quoniam cum sit elementum minor pars eius cui est elementum. The text ends on f. 125v with illum humorem qui attrahere violenter.
With this sixth treatise in MS 166 a second hand begins. It is both neat and similar to the first hand, also from the 13th century.
Dates
- Creation: late 13th century
Creator
- Gherardo, da Cremona, 1113 or 1114-1187 (translator of Arabic works into Latin) (Translator, Person)
Conditions Governing Access
The collection is open to all. The manuscripts can be consulted in the Centre for Research Collections, Edinburgh University Main Library.
Extent
11 folios
Creator
- Gherardo, da Cremona, 1113 or 1114-1187 (translator of Arabic works into Latin) (Translator, Person)
Repository Details
Part of the University of Edinburgh Library Heritage Collections Repository
Centre for Research Collections
University of Edinburgh Main Library
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Edinburgh EH8 9LJ Scotland
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