The Story

This isn't a novel with a plot, but a historical document with a story behind it. In 18th-century Portugal, someone wrote an anonymous letter airing serious public grievances against doctors, surgeons, and apothecaries. Bento Morganti, a priest, then published this 'True Judgment,' where he dissects that original letter. He lays out the complaints: that these medical professionals were often ignorant, greedy, and their treatments could be as dangerous as the diseases. It's a raw, unfiltered look at the distrust between everyday people and the experts who were supposed to heal them.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was how modern the core conflict feels. It's about accountability, expertise, and public anger at a system that feels broken. Morganti isn't just reporting; you can feel his own frustration. Reading it, you get this vivid picture of a society grappling with who to trust with their health. It's a short, punchy piece that makes you think about how much has changed in medicine—and how much the fundamental tension between patients and practitioners remains.

Final Verdict

Perfect for history buffs who love primary sources that aren't dry treaties, or anyone fascinated by the history of medicine and public opinion. It's not a light read, but it's a quick one. You won't get characters to love, but you'll get a loud, clear voice from the past shouting about a problem that still echoes today. Think of it as a fascinating, 300-year-old op-ed.