"This work has been out of print for many years. I long hoped that someone more competent than I would cover the ground more completely. This has not happened and, since the demand for the book has continued, it is here revised with a number of minor adjustments. I would express the hope that this new edition may rouse sufficient practical interest in the subject to induce someone to undertake a more comprehensive work. The literature in English is now more copious than it was when the first edition was published over thirty years ago. Works by some of the leading figures in the history of anatomy -- Vesalius, Galen, Coiter, Mondino, Leonardo -- are now available in English translation, and I am in hope that this new edition may turn my readers' attention at least to these." --Charles Singer, "Kilmarth"; Par, Cornwall; 26th May 1956; Preface to Second Edition, page [iii]. "The main task in preparing this account of the History of Anatomy has been the investigation of sources. I do not think I have referred to any book or manuscript without having myself examined either the original or a direct photograph or facsimile....In composing this short History of Anatomy I have been concerned to keep it within compassable limits. Unprogressive anatomical movements and periods are therefore but lightly touched upon, attention being concentrated on the line of definite advance. It appeared both unnecessary and undesirable to make any division between Physiology and Anatomy, at least in the period under consideration....'Vivitur ingenio, caetera mortis erunt," It is his genius that yet walks the earth; all else of himmay go down into silence, is the motto which Vesalius has chosen for the most beautiful of all his figures (Fig. 103). Let him be taken at his word! I have sought to treat him and the great men who went before and after him as they would be treated....With a view to the greatest possible compression, references, quotations, and bibliography are omitted from this preliminary sketch. They must await a more extensive work on the History of Anatomy...." --Charles Singer, Anatomical Institute, University College, London, May 26, 1925; Preface [to the First Edition], pages vi - viii.