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Anatomica


Synopsis


"There's a fine line between the horrible and the sublime, and Joanna Ebenstein's Anatomica: The Exquisite and Unsettling Art of Human Anatomy walks it." New York Times Book Review

For centuries, humankind has sought to know itself through an understanding of the body, in sickness and in health, inside and out. This fascination left in its wake a rich body of artworks that demonstrate not only the facts of the human body, but also the ways in which our ideas about the body and its proper representation have changed over time. At times both beautiful and unsettling, illustrated anatomy continues to hold our interest today, and is frequently referenced in popular culture. Anatomica brings together some of the most striking, fascinating and bizarre artworks from the the 14th through 20th century, exploring human anatomy in one beautiful volume, with over 250 images.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Muscular System

* Provides an overview of the muscular system, including the types of muscles and their functions.
* Real Example: The biceps brachii, a flexor muscle in the upper arm, contracts to bend the elbow joint.

Chapter 2: The Skeletal System

* Examines the structure and function of the skeletal system, focusing on bones, joints, and ligaments.
* Real Example: The knee joint, a synovial joint, allows for a wide range of motion while providing stability and support.

Chapter 3: The Nervous System

* Explores the anatomy and function of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
* Real Example: The optic nerve transmits visual information from the retina to the brain, allowing for sight.

Chapter 4: The Circulatory System

* Delves into the components and function of the circulatory system, including the heart, blood vessels, and blood.
* Real Example: Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues, delivering nutrients and removing waste products.

Chapter 5: The Respiratory System

* Examines the structure and function of the respiratory system, including the lungs, airways, and diaphragm.
* Real Example: The diaphragm, a large muscle, contracts and expands to draw air in and out of the lungs.

Chapter 6: The Digestive System

* Provides a detailed look at the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, and accessory organs.
* Real Example: The small intestine absorbs nutrients from digested food, while the large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes.

Chapter 7: The Urinary System

* Explores the anatomy and function of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, and ureters.
* Real Example: The kidneys filter waste products from the blood, producing urine that is stored in the bladder and eventually expelled.

Chapter 8: The Reproductive System

* Examines the structure and function of the reproductive systems in both males and females.
* Real Example: The testes in males produce sperm, while the ovaries in females produce eggs.

Chapter 9: The Endocrine System

* Provides an overview of the endocrine system, including the glands and hormones it produces.
* Real Example: The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and growth.

Chapter 10: The Integumentary System

* Covers the anatomy and function of the integumentary system, including the skin, hair, and nails.
* Real Example: The skin provides a protective barrier against pathogens and UV radiation, while also regulating body temperature.