The Physician Summary of Noah Gordon's Book

The Physician by Noah Gordon: A Journey into the Mystical World of Healing

Noah Gordon's novel, The Physician, takes readers on an unforgettable journey through time and space, immersing them in the mystical world of healing during the 11th century. Published in 1986, this captivating historical fiction novel introduces us to Rob Cole, a young man who embarks on a quest for knowledge and self-discovery that will shape his destiny forever.

Characters

• Rob Cole: The protagonist of the story, Rob Cole is a young man from London who possesses a gift for healing. Determined to become a doctor, he embarks on a perilous journey to Persia to study medicine at Arab universities.
• Barber: An aging English barber who takes Rob under his wing and teaches him the basics of medicine and healing.
• Rebecca: A beautiful young Jew with whom Rob falls in love during his travels.
• Avicenna: A legendary Persian physician and philosopher who becomes Rob's mentor and teaches him the art of medicine.
• Shah Ala ad-Daula: The ruler of Persia who becomes Rob's benefactor and helps him on his journey to becoming a physician.

Summary

In Noah Gordon's The Physician, we follow the journey of Rob Cole, a young man living in 11th century London. Rob discovers his gift for healing at an early age, thanks to the guidance of an aging barber who teaches him the basics of medicine. Determined to become a doctor, Rob sets out on a quest to learn more about the mystical ways of healing.

As he travels across the land, Rob encounters various challenges and adventures, from hustling and juggling to peddling cures to the sick. Along the way, he meets Rebecca, a young Jew with whom he falls in love, and encounters Avicenna, a legendary Persian physician and philosopher who becomes his mentor.

Rob's journey takes him to Persia, where he studies medicine at Arab universities and undergoes a transformation that will shape his destiny forever. With the help of Shah Ala ad-Daula, the ruler of Persia, Rob navigates the challenges of becoming a physician and learns the importance of compassion, knowledge, and perseverance in the healing arts.

Analysis

Noah Gordon's The Physician is a captivating tale of self-discovery, adventure, and the power of healing. Through the character of Rob Cole, Gordon explores the complexities of medicine and the mystical world of healing in the 11th century. The novel delves into themes of love, friendship, betrayal, and the pursuit of knowledge, offering readers a rich and engrossing story that transports them to a distant time and place.

Gordon's attention to historical detail and vivid storytelling bring the world of 11th century medicine to life, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who sought to heal the sick. The character of Rob Cole is a compelling and relatable protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery and growth resonates with readers of all ages.

Overall, The Physician is a masterful work of historical fiction that will captivate readers with its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and powerful themes. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, fiction, or historical novels, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Final thoughts

To conclude, The Physician by Noah Gordon is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a captivating story of adventure, love, and the power of healing. Whether you are interested in historical fiction, fiction, or historical novels, this book offers a compelling and immersive experience that will transport you to another time and place. If you enjoyed this summary, consider purchasing the complete book or listening to the audiobook for the full experience of Rob Cole's remarkable journey into the mystical world of healing.

9780751503890 (ISBN10: 0751503894)