Abortion has been one of the most controversial topics not only in the modern era, but can be traced back to fifth century B.C. While the philosophers and conveyors of medicine did not know much about the human body back then, the concept of life and when it originates can still be found in these ancient texts. It was interesting and surprising to see the medication that these ancient doctors prescribed to induce abortion. One such classical physician was Galen who is considered to be the foremost physician in classical antiquity and some of his prescriptions included "lupine, death carrot, two juniper species, wallflower or stock, squirting cucumber, woundwort, pepper, and the fern known as pteris" (Riddle). Riddle goes on to describe animal studies which have found squirting cucumbers to be quite effective as abortifacients. This parallel between ancient and modern medicine is important, because while these physicians of antiquity did not have the medical knowledge, they were still able to provide their patients with solutions to modern problems. Also, it is also important to note that while abortion was practiced sometimes heavily, the ethics and morality of abortion were just as convoluted as they are today. The poem written below illustrates how one Roman poet (Ovid) felt about using dangerous agents such as the herbs described above, in order to terminate pregnancy. It also shows that abortion was not only a contested idea between philosophers and politicians, but also was a concern among ordinary people (Kapparis).
Aiming to end her pregnancy - so rashly -
Corrina lies exhausted, life in doubt.
To run such fearful risks without my knowledge
Should make me rage, but fear's put rage to rout ...
O Isis ...
Turn your eyes here; on her - and me - have mercy;
You will give life to her and she to me ...
You too, kind Ilithyia, who take pity,
When girls are locked in labour, and relieve
Their hidden load, be present, hear my prayer
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