An 18th-century scholar and doctor – Justus János Torkos
An 18th-century scholar and doctor – Justus János Torkos

Summary/Abstract: János Torkos was the chief physician of the city of Bratislava and one of the most distinguished and knowledgeable physicians of the 18th century. He was a prominent member of the Lutheran intelligentsia in Upper Hungary, a group that produced many eminent scholars. János Torkos authored several noteworthy medical records and letters of medical advice. He is also credited with publishing the first Hungarian bilingual book on the pricing of medicines. His scientific description of the Gófitz twins stands as a remarkable reflection of the medical achievements and understanding of his era. The story of these first scientifically described Siamese twins gained widespread attention across Europe, featured in numerous medical books, and became one of the great sensations of the time. According to Dr. Torkos, the cause of the twins’ conjoined condition was attributed to imaginatio materna, i. e. maternal imagination.

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