The Story of the Plague: Exquisite Illustrated Text (Exquisite Illustrated Text)

Author: Howard Markel
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-06-01
Features: Experience a thrilling journey like never before! A series of heart-stirring visuals that give you a direct understanding of epidemics for the first time. A tragic tale of how epidemics have shaped human destiny and historical progress. For humans, it’s nothing new—it has long been a threat to the world. The story of epidemics is the story of humanity’s battle against viruses. Generally, it is impossible to completely eliminate a virus. Ancient viruses can resurface, while new viruses are constantly being discovered by infectious disease experts. Future disasters may be known harms that have evolved into new deadly characteristics through astonishing mutations. Or they may be unknown harms, the emergence of which is uncertain, but their power and transmissibility could surpass any epidemic in history. Professor Howard Markel’s book "The Story of Epidemics" is an accessible medical history that blends anthropology, the history of civilization, medical thought, medical conditions, doctor profiles, folklore, and the history of human disasters. It tells the history of epidemics and the human spirit’s fight against them. It comprehensively recalls the characteristics and processes of various epidemics faced by humanity from ancient Greece to the present, profoundly revealing the relationship between medical progress, the power of viruses, and the evolution of civilization. It provides a blueprint for humanity to understand the true nature of epidemics and offers lessons for preventing them. History shows that eras free from epidemics are rare, and humans have always coexisted with them, meaning epidemics are an integral part of human life and an eternal adversary that humanity must combat. Howard Markel’s work proves the assertion of Louis Pasteur, the father of virology: "The laws of epidemics and death are always devising new destructive means, while the laws of peace, work, and health are always seeking new methods to rescue humanity from epidemics."