The Troubled Intersections of Medicine and Society

This chapter examines the difficult early life of a boy in a violent educational setting and the shift in his family dynamics when his father becomes sheriff, allowing for a prestigious education. It explores the foundations of a 19th-century doctor's career, including his struggles in medical training and his experiences as a plantation physician amidst the moral complexities of slavery. Through the lens of gynecology's historical context, the chapter reveals the intertwined issues of race, gender, and ethics, showcasing the evolution of medical practices concerning women's health in a society marked by economic exploitation.