​The Medicine and Surgery of Homer by Henry Dunbar is a scholarly examination of the medical practices depicted in Homer’s epic poems, The Iliad and The Odyssey. Dunbar delves into the detailed portrayals of injuries, treatments, and surgical procedures described in these ancient texts, highlighting the advanced understanding of medicine in early Greek literature. He explores various aspects of ancient medical knowledge, including the use of herbal remedies, surgical techniques, and the roles of healers in Homeric society.​

The book provides an analysis of specific medical cases presented in the epics, such as the treatment of wounds sustained in battle. Dunbar examines the methods employed by characters like Machaon and Podalirius, who serve as physicians in the Greek army, offering insights into the practical application of medical knowledge during the Trojan War. Through these case studies, the author illustrates the integration of medical practices with the narrative structure of the poems, reflecting the significance of healing in the context of heroism and warfare.​

Furthermore, Dunbar discusses the symbolic and cultural implications of medicine in Homeric literature. He considers how the depiction of medical practices serves not only as a reflection of contemporary knowledge but also as a means of conveying moral and ethical themes. The interplay between healing and harm, the roles of divine intervention, and the portrayal of physicians as both warriors and healers are explored to understand the broader societal values embedded in these ancient texts.​

The Medicine and Surgery of Homer offers a comprehensive study of the medical elements within Homer’s epic poems. Dunbar’s work underscores the sophistication of ancient Greek medicine and its narrative significance, providing readers with a deeper appreciation of how medical knowledge was interwoven with the cultural and literary fabric of early Greek society.