Intellectual surgeon ,founder of first public muse
The late Sir Charles Illingworth was an English outsider who transformed the very insular and complacent Glasgow medical scene in to a powerhouse school of surgery,with continuing influence throughout the Anglophone world.
In such a way he could identify with William Hunter ,a Scot who became the outstanding medical man in 18th century London.Hunter introduced proper university medical education to the capital,and in the process acquired great wealth.He and his brother,John,brought a scientific approach to medical practice in London and new ideas from continental Europe.
Illingworth describes the progress of this upwardly mobile man from East Kilbride and Hamilton to the salons of the capital of the British Empire.He left a legacy of medical education and a world class museum which he donated to his alma mater in Glasgow.
Illingworth clearly identified with William Hunter,and perhaps repaid to Glasgow the debt owed by England for the Hunters.
