Casanova's Guide to Medicine: 18th Century Medical Practice by Lisetta Lovett was an amazing read that was full of historical health and medical information. Extremely fascinating. #CasanovasGuidetoMedicine #NetGalley

this was a really interesting book, I enjoyed reading this book. I enjoyed getting a glimpse of Casanova's life.

I received a free e-ARC from the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I always enjoy titles from Pen and Sword, and this book was no exception. Casanova's Guide to Medicine utilises the extensive journals, memoirs and letters written by Giacomo Casanova to explore medicine and disease during the course of his life, which spanned three quarters of the eighteenth century.

The book starts with a brief overview of Casanova's life, before proceeding to explore different topics relating to the body, medicine, and illness. Because Casanova was a keen observer, and interested in matters of health, his writings contain a wealth of information about such topics. Lovett uses quotes as a stepping stone to explore treatments, medical theories of the time, and people's social and cultural attitudes toward various aspects of their bodies and health.

Topics range from venereal disease, infectious diseases (such as plague and fevers), women's health (particularly gynaecology and pregnancy related health concerns), non-infectious diseases (such as gout), and even to sexuality. The end of the book also explores the relationship and trust between patient and doctor.

The writing is easy to read, and very accessible for a general audience. I would recommend this book for anyone who has an interest in the history of health and medicine.

Sorry I didn't get to read it before the time ran out. I didnt know you couldnt renew once archived. I was looking forward to reading it aswell

Prior to reading this fascinating book, my associations with Casanova were purely hedonistic. But now? My eyes have been opened to a new world. Casanova was incredibly knowledgeable about a diverse range of subjects from sciences to medicine (he was a doctor of sorts) to languages to human nature. He was known to respect women and also paid off peoples' debts. Thank goodness his doctor recommended he journal his life when going through depression. This book is about his life and observations.

Casanova wrote Science Fiction, poetry and scientific works and through his writing we learn loads about social history of the time. He was a traveler (I've been to many places mentioned in this book such as Trieste, Venice, Dubrovnik, Lucca, Czechia) and therefore have a connection of sorts.

He had venereal diseases at least ten times and writes of his experiences including treatments of the day such as mercury. He discusses syphilis and the pox in great detail as well as the "Bolognese Itch", "nerves", the "falling disease" and delirium. Not only that but he describes carriage accidents, suicide (he had bouts of depression), addictions (he admitted to being a gambler), hernias, obstetrics and gynecology, doctors' ethics vs. etiquette and "taking the waters". Information is also drawn from the teachings of the likes of Hippocrates and Galen.

My views have been broadened as a result of this book. Nonfiction and History fans really should read this fascinating and informative book. My only slight complaint is that it felt a bit long at times but the information contained is absolutely amazing.

My sincere thank you to Pen & Sword and NetGalley for the privilege of reading the e-ARC of this superlative book!