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Illness and Death
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Life in Greece was certainly healthy for some. Many Greeks lived to be older than 80. But because there were no cures for simple childhood illnesses, many children died young.
Many people believed sickness was caused by the gods and that prayers and sacrifices were important to prevent it.
There were also Greek doctors. They saw illness as the failure of the body to work properly. They examined patients carefully and tried to figure out what was the best cure. They understood that exercise, fresh air, and eating the right food were important for good health. These doctors, such as Hippocrates, were the founders of modern medicine.
(A) Asklepios
Asklepios was the god of healing. His temples could be found throughout the Greek world. Sick people would ask for his help.
(B) Doctor at Work
The best Greek doctors could deal with wounds and broken bones. They used drugs made from plants.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Greeks
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Section:
Spotlight on Ancient Greeks
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Chapter:
Illness and Death
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