When did Theophilus write De urinis? disputed

Positions

1. Seventh century

   Wallis (2000) writes that his dates are not known exactly but that the seventh century is highly likely. The EAU History Office dates him to about 610 to 641, the reign of Heraclius.

   Sources

   1. Wallis 2000, Inventing diagnosis: Theophilus' De urinis in the classroom (Dynamis 20:31-73) Secondary
   2. EAU History Office: Uroscopy Museum or society

2. Ninth century

   A 2008 history in the Journal of Urology gives the ninth century, while also placing him at the court of Heraclius (610 to 641).

   Sources

   1. Diamantis et al. 2008, J Urol 180:2330-2332 (text) Secondary

Evidence

No firm date survives. The case for the seventh century rests on the link to Heraclius's court; the one ninth-century dating in the film's sources contradicts itself. The date and translator of the Latin version, which entered the Articella teaching anthology, are also debated.

Current standing

The seventh century is the accepted dating and the one the film uses. The exact date remains unknown.

All sources