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.

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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).

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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.
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