The anatomical and embryological studies conducted by Girolamo Fabrici were of such importance that he might be considered the founder of modern embryology. In the anatomical theater of the University of Padua, Fabrici demonstrated the advantages of the comparative approach to anatomical and embryological questions. Fabrici was born into a noble, but no longer wealthy family, near Orvieto, Italy. Although he was apparently the eldest son, the date and year of his birth are uncertain. His family sent him to Padua where he studied Greek, Latin, logic, and philosophy. Fabrici became interested in medicine and studied with Gabriele Falloppio and he earned his degree in medicine and philosophy about 1559. When Falloppio died in 1562, Fabrici took over his mentor's position as teacher of anatomy. Fabrici gave private lessons in anatomy from 1563 until 1565 when he was appointed to lecture on anatomy and surgery at the University of Padua. In 1600 he...