The protagonist, Charis, is a highly intelligent young woman with an extraordinary devotion to the healing profession. The interest, first discovered during childhood and confirmed by her reading of Hippocrates, leads her to go to Alexandria (Egypt) and undertake formal medical study. At that time a woman was not permitted to do such things, so Charis poses as Chariton, a eunuch. Bradshaw portrays how Charis responds to a variety of situations which challenge her selfimposed role. Charis's deepest problem is actually her own longing for marriage and a family, an emotional need which she represses in favor of her medical career.

The Jewish physician, Philon, with whom she undertakes her apprenticeship, is not only a successful doctor with a full grasp of the medical knowledge of the time, but also a considerate and caring person. A family man, who follows his Jewish religion faithfully, he is also tolerant...