Hermippus Redivivus by Sabine Baring-Gould
The work presents a satirical exploration of the absurdity of certain medical theories and practices from the past, particularly focusing on the fictional character of L. Clodius Hermippus, who allegedly lived to 115 years by inhaling the breath of young girls. The narrative begins with a critique of the three enemies of man: devils, doctors, and lawyers, with a particular emphasis on the medical profession's eccentricities. The author discusses a supposed Roman inscription that claims Hermippus's longevity was due to the inhalation of young girls' breath, which is presented as a serious medical claim. This inscription serves as a springboard for a detailed and humorous commentary by Dr. Johan Heinrich Cohausen, who attempts to rationalize the idea through elaborate reasoning and fanciful anecdotes. Cohausen's commentary delves into the nature of breath, suggesting that the exhalations of young girls are imbued with vitality and life-giving properties. He posits that inhaling this breath could rejuvenate the elderly, drawing on various historical anecdotes to support his claims. The text humorously critiques the medical community's tendency to embrace bizarre theories without sufficient evidence. The narrative further explores the implications of this theory, suggesting that old men should marry young women to benefit from their breath, while simultaneously mocking the notion of women being reduced to mere instruments for prolonging male life. The author employs a mix of scientific jargon and whimsical reasoning to illustrate the absurdity of the arguments presented. Cohausen also introduces the idea of a "philosophical chymistry," proposing that the breath of young girls could be distilled into an elixir of life, thus allowing for the prolongation of life beyond natural limits. This notion is presented with a blend of seriousness and farce, highlighting the ridiculousness of the claims. Throughout the work, the author maintains a critical tone towards the medical practices of the time, using humor to expose the folly of relying on unproven theories. The text serves as both a parody of medical literature and a commentary on societal attitudes towards gender and health, ultimately questioning the validity of the claims made about longevity and the role of women in the pursuit of health. In conclusion, the work is a satirical examination of the intersection of medicine, gender, and societal norms, using the fictional narrative of Hermippus to critique the absurdities of past medical beliefs and the treatment of women as mere vessels for male vitality.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1892 · Genre: Satire, Philosophical Fiction, Medical Literature · 4,967 words
First lines
"Man," said the learned Prioli, "is composed of soul, body, and goods. In his pilgrimage through life these component parts are constantly exposed to three mortal enemies: the devils, who are ever seeking the destruction of his soul; the doctors, who are intent on ruining his constitution; and the lawyers, who seek to rob him of his goods."
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Hermippus Redivivus is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1892 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
- Date: 1892 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Philosophical Fiction, Medical Literature, Fantasy, Historical Fiction
- Length: 4,967 words
- Structure: 1 section, 44 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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- Work identity for Hermippus Redivivus by Sabine Baring-Gould
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Genres
- Satire — The book employs humor and exaggeration to critique medical practices and societal norms regarding health and longevity.
- Philosophical Fiction — It explores deep philosophical questions about life, death, and the nature of existence through a fictional narrative.
- Medical Literature — The text discusses medical theories and practices, albeit in a satirical and absurd manner.
- Fantasy — The premise of prolonging life through the breath of little girls introduces fantastical elements.
Tags
occult · mysticism · alchemy · philosophy · esotericism · spirituality · history · mythology · rituals · transformation · metaphysics · symbolism