Patronage
-
In the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries support from important
patrons was crucial for medical professionals and an important
feature of the medical profession. Especially in Edinburgh, where
the medical marketplace was intensely competitive and official
posts were limited it was very important to have connections
in order to become successful.
-
At the start of the nineteenth century, however, patronage began
to be seen unfavourably as a symbol of past times. Medical biographies
began to play down the role of patrons in the lives and careers
of medical professionals. In place of patronage, public servicebegan
to be emphasised as a demonstration of the moral character of
the subject. Service to hospitals, medical institutions, the
crown and the army were all celebrated as selfless, virtuous
acts committed for the benefit of the public. Public service
came to be seen as a reflection of a medical man’s moral character.
This transition from the strong and open role of patrons in a
man’s career to
an emphasis on his humanitarian work can be seen in the representation
of the medical practitioners in this collection.
|