Medical correspondence at the dawn of modernity: translation and commentary of two letters from Zacuto Lusitano (1575-1642) to Paolo Zacchia (1584-1659)

Abstract

Paolo Zacchia (1584-1659) wrote a pioneering work in forensic medicine titled Quaestiones medico-legales, of which the first book was published in 1621. In the fourth edition of this work, published in 1655, Zacchia included two letters addressed to him by the Portuguese physician Zacuto Lusitano (1575-1642). This article presents an annotated translation of these letters. Ultimately, the analysis of the correspondence will demonstrate that the early modern physicians used this instrument as a strategy for promoting published works, advancing personal and professional recognition, and securing integration into the medical profession, the intellectual community, and the wealthy elite of their time.