Marinus of Alexandria: Galen's anatomical forefather, or: How do you solve a problem like Marinus?

Abstract

Marinus of Alexandria is—with the exception of Hippocrates—the most commended ancient anatomist in the Galenic corpus, and the man to whom Galen attributes the resurgence of anatomy itself. Working in the first century C.E., he dramatically influenced the course of the history of medicine in two main ways: firstly, he made great strides in anatomical discovery, expounded in an extensive anatomical textbook that attracted much contemporary praise; secondly, he produced considerable expertise around the ancient world through teaching and didactic enterprise. Marinus generated significant renown and respect from these endeavours, which greatly benefitted future generations of medical scholars, including the infamous Galen himself, who even openly admits as such.However, despite Marinus' enormous influence on Galenic anatomy, a body of scientific knowledge that reigned supreme and untouchable for more than a millennium, he today fails to command a level of recognition befitting his epochal achievements. This article explores the factors contributing to his underrated reputation amidst incredibly mixed scholarly opinion, in contrast to the available evidence of the discoveries and innovations of a man who proved so inspirational to the most famous of ancient authors.