The role of Christianity in Medieval medicine

History

In this unit, pupils learn about a theme in British history over a period of roughly 1000 years. They examine this theme, analysing the impact it had in Medieval, Early Modern, Industrial and Modern Britain, with a particular focus on change and continuity.

Thematic Studies

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Physical illness or injury, medical procedures, blood.

Depiction or discussion of serious mental health issues including eating disorders, self-harm, suicide or attempted suicide, or the aftermath of such an event.

Depiction or discussion of mental health issues

What term refers to a large and important organisation?

Which of the following was controlled by the Church in the medieval period?

What type of care was prioritised in medieval hospitals?

The medieval Church encouraged belief in {{}} healing.

The Church approved of Galen's medical works.

The Church disapproved of Galen's medical works.

The Church was unaware of Galen's medical works.

Good treatment was too easy for most people to find.

Barber-surgeons and apothecaries were too expensive.

Spiritual health was more important than physical health.

What did the monk Saint Bernard mean when he said “to buy drugs or consult with physicians doesn’t fit with religion”?

saying what is wrong with someone who is sick

saying what medical treatment someone needs

Which type of caregiver was most likely to taste a person's urine?

Which group of caregivers was most likely to be found in a medieval hospital?

How did medieval hospitals try to keep their environments clean?

Who created and sold medicines in the medieval period?

People who had been university-trained to provide medical treatments.

People who had worked as physicians, apothecaries and barber-surgeons.

People who lacked training but had a local reputation for the care they offered.

Identify the most accurate description of wise men and women.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of mental health issues

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

The role of Christianity in Medieval medicine

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.