Medical Correspondence in English Journals since 1665. Letters to the Editor
Authors
Pauline Webber
Dpt. Experimental Medicine, English Language Unit, La Sapienza University, Rome, I
Keywords:
Medical Journals , English Journals , Letters , Medical Profession
Abstract
This study traces the development of letters publiched in medical journal from 1665 until today from a linguistic and scientific viewpoint and considers some of the advantages offered by the letter format. The original letter type has evolved into tro separate sub-genres, one resembling the short scientific report, the other more personal and informal. Letters thus offer the scientist something more than a mere academic instrument for keeping abreast of the times.