" The function of
respiration was the introduction of the pneuma, the spirits which passed
from the lungs to the heart through the pulmonary vessels. Galen went a
good deal beyond the idea of Aristotle, reaching our modern conception
that the function is to maintain the animal heat, and that the
smoky matters derived from combustion of the blood are discharged by
expiration.
I have dwelt on these points in Galen's physiology, as they are
fundamental in the history of the circulation; and they are sufficient
to illustrate his position. Among his other brilliant experiments were
the demonstration of the function of the laryngeal nerves, of the
motor and sensory functions of the spinal nerve roots, of the effect
of transverse incision of the spinal cord, and of the effect of
hemisection. Altogether there is no ancient physician in whose writings
are contained so many indications of modern methods of research.
Galen's views of disease in general are those of Hippocrates, but
he introduces many refinements and subdivisions according to the
predominance of the four humors, the harmonious combination of
which means health, or eucrasia, while their perversion or improper
combination leads to dyscrasia, or ill health.
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