The Topic of Sir Thomas Browne's Dissertation

Abstract

A DOCUMENT in the Oxford University Archives answers a question that has tantalized scholars and admirers of Sir Thomas Browne ever since the 1640s: the topic of the dissertation which he presented for his MD at Leiden University in December 1633. The document, shelved in the archives as OUA NEP/supra/Reg Q, comprises the certificate authorizing Browne's incorporation on 10 July 1637, as an MD at Oxford University. Divided into two sections, the certificate begins with a testimonial from Browne's Oxford supporters – Richard Baily (Vice Chancellor of the university), Thomas Clayton (Regius Professor of Medicine and Browne's old mentor at Broadgates Hall and Pembroke College), John Bainbridge (Savilian Professor of Astronomy and MD), Daniel Lawford (senior proctor), and John Glisson (junior proctor). Attached to this brief testimonial is a longer one from Leiden University itself, dated 21 December 1633, and signed by Antonius Thysius (Rector Magnificus), Daniel Heinsius (secretary of the Senate), and Ottho Heurnius (Professor of Practical Medicine, Anatomy, and Chirurgery). In the course of this formulaic witness to Browne's successful completion of his medical degree, his Leiden professors note that he has defended his dissertation ‘de variolis’, that is, on smallpox (161v).