What is the summary of the book The Physician written by Noah Gordon? Information about the summary, characters and analysis of The Physician.
The Physician
“The Physician” is a novel by American author Noah Gordon, first published in 1986. The novel is set in 11th-century England and Persia and follows the journey of a young man named Rob Cole, who wants to become a physician.
The theme of the novel revolves around the idea of finding one’s place in the world and the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. Rob is driven by his desire to become a physician and heal people, but he must first overcome numerous obstacles and challenges along the way, including prejudice and persecution.
The novel also explores themes of religion and cultural differences, as Rob travels from England to Persia and encounters different beliefs and customs. Through his journey, he gains a deeper understanding of the world and the people around him, and learns the importance of compassion and respect for others.
“The Physician” is considered a classic of historical fiction and has been well received by critics and readers alike for its richly drawn characters, vivid historical setting, and thought-provoking themes.
Book Summary
“The Physician” is a historical fiction novel set in the 11th century. The story follows the journey of a young man named Rob Cole, who was born in England and raised by his mother, a healer and midwife. Rob has always been fascinated by the practice of medicine and wants to become a physician himself. However, in 11th-century England, becoming a physician is a difficult and dangerous path, as the Church prohibits the study of medicine and sees it as heretical.
Despite these challenges, Rob is determined to become a physician and sets out on a journey to find a master who can teach him the knowledge and skills he needs. Along the way, he meets various characters who teach him valuable lessons and shape his understanding of the world. One of these characters is a wandering friar named Brother Tobias, who encourages Rob to pursue his dream and helps him to find a teacher.
Rob eventually arrives in Persia and meets the physician and philosopher, Avicenna. Avicenna agrees to take Rob on as a student and teaches him everything he knows about medicine and the workings of the human body. Rob spends several years in Persia, learning from Avicenna and treating patients with his newfound knowledge. However, the political situation in Persia becomes increasingly unstable, and Rob realizes that it is time to leave and return to England.
Back in England, Rob uses his knowledge and skills to treat patients and help those in need. He becomes a sought-after physician and attracts the attention of the Church, which sees him as a threat. Despite facing persecution and threats from the Church, Rob continues to practice medicine and heal people, even when it puts his own life in danger.
Throughout the novel, Rob learns about the importance of compassion and respect for others, regardless of their background or beliefs. He also comes to understand the value of knowledge and the pursuit of wisdom, as he gains a deeper understanding of the world and the people around him.
In the end, Rob finds peace and fulfillment in his work as a physician, knowing that he is making a difference in the world and helping those in need. “The Physician” is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of self-discovery, perseverance, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Characters
“The Physician” features a cast of memorable and well-developed characters, including:
- Rob Cole – The protagonist of the novel, Rob is a young man from England who wants to become a physician. He is determined, curious, and compassionate, and his journey to become a physician shapes his understanding of the world and the people around him.
- Brother Tobias – A wandering friar who encounters Rob early in his journey. Brother Tobias is kind, wise, and supportive, and he helps Rob to find a teacher who can help him to achieve his dream.
- Avicenna – A physician and philosopher living in Persia. Avicenna takes Rob on as a student and teaches him everything he knows about medicine and the workings of the human body. Avicenna is a wise and learned man, and his teachings shape Rob’s understanding of the world.
- The Old Man of the Mountain – The leader of the Assassins, a powerful and feared group in Persia. The Old Man is a mysterious and enigmatic figure, and his interactions with Rob shape his understanding of the world.
- Rob’s Mother – Rob’s mother is a healer and midwife, and her influence and teachings shape Rob’s interest in medicine and his understanding of the world.
- Roger of Salerno – A physician who lives in England and is one of the few people in the country who is allowed to practice medicine. Roger is a mentor to Rob and helps him to find his place in the world.
- The Archbishop of Canterbury – The leader of the Church in England, the Archbishop is a powerful and feared figure who sees Rob as a threat to the Church’s authority. He persecutes Rob and tries to stop him from practicing medicine.
These are some of the main characters in “The Physician,” and each of them plays a crucial role in the story and in shaping Rob’s journey.
