History of circumcision from the earliest times to the present

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

23135

Title

History of circumcision from the earliest times to the present

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Dr. P. C. Remondino's 1891 treatise argues that circumcision is a vital hygienic measure, citing historical precedents from Egypt to modern medicine. The text explores the physical and moral benefits of the procedure while detailing surgical techniques, historical practices among various cultures, and the alleged health advantages enjoyed by the Jewish race.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1891 by F. A. Davis, P. C. Remondino's *History of Circumcision from the Earliest Times to the Present* serves as a comprehensive medical defense of the procedure, expanding upon a paper presented to the Southern California Medical Society. Dr. Remondino, a distinguished member of numerous medical societies, argues that circumcision is essential for physical, mental, and moral health. The work traces the practice's origins in ancient Egypt, where it symbolized priesthood and patriotism, noting its adoption by Greek philosophers and its subsequent spread to Arab and Turkish cultures. Remondino details specific ceremonial aspects, such as the eight-day feasts in Algeria involving sand dressings and elaborate music designed to drown out the cries of the children during the operation. A central theme of the book is the contrast between the health and longevity of the Jewish people and the perceived degeneration of other races. Remondino attributes Jewish vitality to hygienic practices, strong family structures, and patriarchal influence, suggesting that these factors, combined with circumcision, exempt them from many diseases affecting other populations. The text includes extensive chapters on pathology, discussing conditions like phimosis, cancer, syphilis, and gangrene associated with the prepuce. It also addresses 'savage' practices, including infibulation and female circumcision, analyzing their medical implications. The author provides a detailed review of surgical methods, ranging from simple cuts to elaborate procedures, with particular attention to after-care and dressings. While acknowledging public modesty regarding such topics, Remondino insists on the necessity of addressing them openly for the good of humanity. The work concludes with a plea for the procedure, framing it not merely as a religious rite but as a scientific and humanitarian necessity for disease prevention. The book further explores related subjects such as eunuchism, hermaphroditism, and the natural history of man, aiming to provide both instruction and recreation for physicians and the general public.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• History