[[Return]]
The Arabs were among the earliest in the cultivation of mathematical and medical science. This fact, together with their monotheism, makes Karshish an appropriate character for the experience of the poem.
[1-14]. [An] ancient and oriental idea of the soul and its relation to the body.
[15]. [Sage]. Abib, to whom the letter is sent.
[17]. [snake]-stone. A stone used to cure snake-bites.
[19]. [charms]. Note here and elsewhere the mixture of science and superstition.
[21-33]. [The] poet has given local color to the journey.
[28]. [Vespasian] was appointed general-in-chief against the [page 266] insurgent Jews in 67 A.D., and began the great siege of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. The date of the poem and the length of time since Lazarus's return to life may thus be estimated.
[37-38]. [Note] the vividness gained by making Karshish keep the physician's point of view.
[44]. [falling]-sickness ... cure. Epilepsy. Karshish is already admitting into his letter the story of Lazarus.