11.1.1 Ideas about the cause of disease and illness. Flashcards
Completed | Paper 1 (c1250–c1500): Medicine in medieval England) | Supernatural and religious explanations of the cause of disease; Rational explanations: the Theory of the Four Humours and the miasma theory; the continuing influence in England of Hippocrates and Galen.
1
Q
What were the supernatural / religious explanations for disease and illnesses? (2)
A
God - Disease is a punishment for sin or a test of faith.
Astrology - Health is affected by the position of the planets/stars, especially at birth.
2
Q
What were the rational explanations for disease and illnesses? (2)
A
The Four Humours Theory - Disease was caused by unbalanced humours (phlegm, choler, black bile, blood).
The Miasma Theory: Disease was caused by bad air / smells from rotting matter (e.g. corpse, swamps, rubbish).
3
Q
Why did Hippocrates and Galen continue to have influence on ideas, in England? (3)
A
- Their writings were supported and taught by the church, who were of great influence, and were feared.
- Their writings were greatly detailed making it was difficult for anybody to challenge it at the time, as there was little scientist evidence to support other theories.
- Physicians were judged to be good based on how well taught they were on Galen and Hippocrates’ teachings, which made it easier for them to find work.
