Leeches in Literature and Medicine

This chapter explores the historical context of German writer Christoph Friedrich Nikolai, who used leeches to treat his visions of ghosts and critiqued Goethe's work with 'The Joys of Young Werther'. It discusses how prominent writers of the time incorporated Nikolai into their works, along with the historical use of leeches in medicine for various ailments. Additionally, it covers the modern medical uses of leeches, including a fascinating story of successful ear reattachment surgery facilitated by these creatures.