Punch,  37 (1859), 260–61.

Modern Athens. By Our Roving Correspondent

Jack Easel

Genre:

Letter, Spoof

Subjects:

Cultural Geography, Education, Medical Practitioners, Instruments, Mathematics, Societies, Universities


    Notes Edinburgh's reputation as 'the intellectual hotbed of Science and Philosophy' and accordingly, the place where his 'talented friend, Lancelot Probus' chose to study medicine. During the 'electioneering excitement' (a reference to the election of a new rector at the University of Edinburgh) he visited Probus's room, which contained medical artefacts and instruments, and was taken by his friend on medical excursions, including inspecting 'dangerous cases' at the infirmary. Draws attention to the fact that the population of Edinburgh comprises lawyers and doctors, and that the city is host to the 'Conjectural Club', a society for debating controversial topics including the 'Differential Calculus in its relation to the Binomial Theorem'. Concludes his letter, which is aimed at correcting 'erroneous notions' about Edinburgh held by young English people, by detailing the recipe of a 'Mixture' which can relieve a wide range of medical symptoms.



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