G. Parker writes with authority and grace as he examines the early history of surgery. He begins at roughly the year 1000 and ends in 1850, highlighting what was then modern practice. As do other medical historians, he finds that the gruesome aftermath of military interventions often push along new medical technologies. Early History of Surgery offers glimpses of various medical figures such as John of Mirfield and William Shippen. Parker takes time to note how the development of the field of surgery was connected with the widespread presence of guilds. He also provides thumbnail sketches of the practice of medicine in various countries for comparison. This new edition is dedicated to Dr. Robert Enelow, who practices the healing arts with wit and spirit.