Classical Chinese Medical Texts: Learning to Read the Classics of Chinese Medicine (Vol. I)

Unlock the foundational language of Chinese medicine.

Classical Chinese Medical Texts (Volume I) is the first introductory textbook focused exclusively on historical medical literature. Spanning over 1,800 years of medical history, from the late Han through the Qing dynasties, this book bridges the gap for students, practitioners, and language learners seeking direct access to original source texts without becoming overwhelmed by unrelated classical vocabulary.

Why Choose This Book?

- Medicine-specific vocabulary: Skip the hundreds of irrelevant characters found in traditional Classical Chinese textbooks. Every lesson uses authentic medical terminology selected to build practical reading ability.

- Historical, thematic selections: Explore texts and debates surrounding essential concepts including fire (君火/相火), the triple warmer (三焦), and the life gate (命門).

- Designed for classroom and independent study: Clear layouts, character analysis, and structural notes make the material accessible to learners at multiple levels.

Inside Each Chapter:

- Dual text layouts: Read traditional characters in authentic right-to-left format or use aligned pinyin study layouts.

- Vocabulary and grammar support: Definitions and explanations prioritize clarity over dense linguistic terminology.

- Translation guidance: Literal translations are intentionally separated from source passages to strengthen reading skills rather than encourage dependency.

- Character focus sections: Examine the structure, history, and significance of key medical characters.

Included Reference Tools:

- Traditional text with simplified Chinese versions in Appendix I

- Historical notes and an English-to-Chinese glossary

- Complete pinyin index covering all characters across the text

"This book was written to build a bridge into classical medical texts for those who have found the leap into original sources too time-consuming and frustrating."

- Richard L. Goodman

Move beyond secondary translations and begin reading the classical medical tradition closer to its original form.

Richard Goodman is an author, editor, teacher, and translator. Following several years of successful clinical practice in the United States after receiving his MS in Chinese medicine, he relocated to Asia to pursue an advanced mastery of the classical language and its historical context. Having studied in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, he has been living and working in Asia now for over 20 years, dedicating his time to translation, writing, and education.