The Empire’s Physician: Galen and Medicine in the Roman World and Reflections on Digital Exhibitions

Abstract

Launched in 2021 in the midst of a global pandemic, the digital exhibition The Empire’s Physician: Prosperity, Plague, and Healing in Ancient Rome is the first of its kind at the Institute for the Study of the Ancient World at New York University. It centers the life and work of the pioneering physician Galen (129–ca. 216 CE) as formative to the history of science and medicine, exploring his influence throughout the Mediterranean world and his legacy in contemporary times. Through eight digital chapters, the exhibition utilizes Galen’s texts as grounding points for discussion as well as a plethora of images related to the history of science and medicine. This exhibition presents a timely opportunity to consider more fully the role of online platforms for learning about the ancient world in accessible, informative, and in-depth ways.