An epitome of judicial or forensic medicine; for the use of medical men, coroners, and barristers.
London: T. And G. Underwood, 1816. 8vo. viii, 199, [1] pp., including errata. FIRST EDITION. Modern calf-backed marbled boards, spine label; other than a small stain to the bottom of B4-5, interior very good. A fine copy with the small stamp of the Library of the College of Physicians. Item #19704
First edition. Male (1779-was known as the Father of English Medical Jurisprudence. In England it was not until the seventeenth century that there is any sign at all of medical evidence being given at coroners' inquests, and then only on the rarest occasions. Prior to the publication of Male’s work, only a couple of very short tracts on forensic medicine had been printed. An epitome of judicial or forensic medicine was quite different, as it was well written, full of original observation and careful analysis of the evidence which may be obtained in medicolegal cases, and above all helpful to the enquiring medical man in spite of its conciseness. Male treats all types of poisons, including metallic, and follows with observations on wounds and contusions, infanticide, rape, strangulation, drowning, insanity and hypochondria. Of particular interest is his chapters on pregnancy, abortion and pretended delivery. The book was a success and brought considerable fame to its author.
Male was physician to the Birmingham General Dispensary before his election to the staff of the Birmingham General Hospital. As a physician he was acknowledged for the soundness of his judgment and the steadiness and perseverence of his practice, combined with the greatest kindness and most benevolent attention to his patients.
Brittain, Bibliography of Medico-Legal works in English, p. 121; see B.T. Davis, “George Edward Male MD--the father of English medical jurisprudence” Proc R Soc Med. 1974 Feb; 67(2): 117–120.
Price: $1,200.00