Born in Munich, in 1957, Michael Stolberg is chair of the history of medicine at the University of Würzburg, Germany. He was trained and worked as a physician in internal medicine and intensive care before turning to the history of medicine and obtaining a second doctoral degree in history and philosophy in 1994. He has published a several books and numerous articles on the history of medicine, the history of the body and the history of medical ethics.

• Part I: The Early Modern Period (1500–1800).- Ethical Challenges.- The Experience of Death and Terminal Care in Everyday Life.- Part II: Modern Times (1800–1970).- The Rise and Fall of Euthanasia Medica.- The Practice of Palliative Treatment.- The Doctor as an Emotional and Spiritual Caregiver.- The Perspective of Patients.- Ethical Controversies.- Institutional Care.- The Time after 1945.- Conclusion: Continuity and Change.- Selected Bibliography.

“This English language translation, deriving from the 2011 German edition, has been enhanced and updated. It is organized into two main parts: ‘The Early Modern Period (1500–1800)’ and ‘Modern Times (1800–1970).’ … As a result of its readable, succinct chapters, this text is recommended. The work includes extensive detailed footnotes and a selective bibliography. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above; faculty and professionals.” (E. R. Paterson, Choice, Vol. 55 (3), November, 2017)