AN INTRODUCTORY LETTER TO DR BROWNE

Abstract An introduction to the works of Thomas Browne, with a focus in particular on biographical details of his life, the range of his curiosities, the titles of his principle works, and his legacy. The introduction is in the form of a letter to Dr Browne, explaining the ways in which the author, a twenty-first-century general practitioner, feels indebted to Browne and finds threads of relevance both to modern medical practice, and to contemporary literature. It is explained that Browne’s knighthood was granted only late in life, almost inadvertently, and so he remains ‘Dr Browne’ rather than ‘Sir Browne’ for this consideration of his life and his work.