History of Medical Illustration

Zurich where he became 'privat-dozent' for neurology, the first appointment of its kind in Switzerland. The following year in a borrowed room in the Pathological Institute, von Monakow assisted by a young American zoologist, Henry Donaldson, established the laboratory which was to become the Hirnanatomisches Institute. Von Monakow developed a very active private practice, first as a general physician and then as a specialist for neuropsychiatry; these activities were conducted chiefly in a private clinic which he established in 1887. At the same time, he also gave courses on brain anatomy, as well as on electrodiagnosis and therapy. In 1897, he published his classic book on brain pathology; a second expanded edition appeared in 1905. Yet, despite international recognition of von Monakow's scientific work, the Zurich medical faculty opposed his appointment as professor. Not until the cantonal government overruled the faculty in 1894 by creating a special chair did von Monakow receive his professorship. In 1910 the Hirnanatomisches Institut was officially established as a university unit. Throughout most of this period, von Monakow supported his research and the laboratory largely out of his own pocket. The full story cannot be presented here, but anyone interested in the subject, in medical research, and in the story of an indomitable personality should read this book. Von Monakow was largely self-taught as an investigator, but he knew what he wanted to do and pursued his goal zealously and energetically. One can only end by admiring the man revealed in this autobiography. The book is well made, easy to read, and has a good index. GEORGE ROSEN