Question 1: Describe the main beliefs about the causes of illness in Medieval England. Why did people think illnesses occurred?

Answer: People believed illnesses were caused by supernatural forces such as demons or evil spirits, as well as imbalances in the body's humours (blood, phlegm, black bile, yellow bile). They thought that God or evil spirits caused disease as punishment or due to moral failings.

Question 2: Explain how the theory of the four humours influenced medical treatments in Medieval times.

Answer: The theory of the four humours suggested that health depended on balancing bodily fluids. Treatments aimed to restore this balance through methods such as bloodletting, purging, or changing diet, believing these would cure or prevent illness.

Question 3: List three common treatments used by Medieval physicians or healers.

Answer: 1. Bloodletting to remove excess blood. 2. Use of herbal remedies and potions. 3. Prayer and religious rituals to seek divine healing.

Question 4: Identify and explain two limitations of medical knowledge and treatment during the Medieval period.

Answer: One limitation was the lack of scientific understanding, as doctors relied on ancient texts and superstition rather than evidence. Another was the absence of effective medicines or techniques, meaning many treatments were ineffective or harmful.

Question 5: Describe how hospitals in Medieval England differed from modern hospitals.

Answer: Medieval hospitals were mainly places for the poor and the sick, often run by religious orders. They focused on spiritual care and prayer rather than advanced medical treatment, and patients were often cared for by monks or nuns rather than trained doctors.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram of a typical Medieval treatment room, including at least two items that might be used during treatment.

Answer: A correct sketch would include a bed or chair for the patient, a table with herbal remedies or tools like knives for bloodletting, and possibly candles or religious symbols. The room should look simple and functional.

Question 7: Explain the role of the Church in Medieval medicine. How did religion influence medical practices?

Answer: The Church played a central role by promoting prayer and divine intervention as a means to cure illness. Many treatments involved religious rituals, and hospitals were run by monks who believed spiritual healing was essential.

Question 8: Describe the purpose of the 'miasma theory' and how it affected health practices in the Medieval period.

Answer: Miasma theory held that diseases were caused by 'bad air' from rotting matter. As a result, people tried to improve sanitation, such as cleaning streets and avoiding foul smells, to prevent illness.

Question 9: Discuss the impact of the Black Death on Medieval medicine and society.

Answer: The Black Death led to a breakdown in traditional medical practices as many believed it was divine punishment. It caused widespread fear, social upheaval, and increased reliance on superstition and prayer. It also prompted some changes in public health, such as quarantine measures.