1. In describing some of the places or items used in her story, Yarbro often uses their proper Latin names, such as toga or thermopolium. Do you consider this a positive or a negative aspect of the novel? How does her use of these terms affect the reader's understanding of the story? Of the period?

2. Since the book is about a doctor and his assistant, the author talks a great deal about ancient medical practices. What diseases are depicted, and how are they treated? What similarities and differences do you perceive between ancient and modern medical practice?

3. In several of their conversations about treating patients, Locadio emphasizes to Enecus the importance of the mind's influence over how well or poorly the patient does physically. Do you agree with Locadio's perception?

Why or why not?

4. In speaking to one of his patients, Locadio says of the...