LATIN AND GREEK ORIGINS OF MEDICAL EMBLEMS AND THEIR ROLE IN MODERN MEDICINE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47390/ydif-y2026v2i3/n24Keywords:
medical symbolism; Latin language; Greek terminology; Rod of Asclepius; caduceus; Bowl of Hygieia; Star of Life; medical emblems; history of medicine; terminology; mythology; pharmaceutical symbols; Latin term elements.Abstract
This article examines the main medical emblems and their origins in ancient Greek mythology and the Latin scientific tradition. The study analyzes widely recognized symbols, including the Rod of Asclepius, the Caduceus, the Bowl of Hygieia, the Red Cross, and the Star of Life, with a focus on their etymological, historical, and cultural significance. Linguistic and iconographic methods, as well as a comparative approach, were applied to explore the symbolic function of these emblems in both ancient and modern contexts. The findings demonstrate that the Latin language serves as a key instrument in the formalization of medical symbolism and ensures the unification of its terminology. The results highlight the importance of understanding Greco-Latin origins for comprehending medical terminology and developing the cultural competence of healthcare professionals.
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