Hello all! I hope in these strange times everyone has stayed safe and sane. I must say, living through a new pandemic was not the way I wanted my scholarly interests to suddenly come into vogue. It has, however, impressed upon me the continued importance of the work historians do. So many of the thingsContinue reading “The Future of Plagues and Peoples”
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Medieval Medicine Memes
For extra credit, students could create memes related to our class. I hope you enjoy!
Hôtel-Dieu, Paris
By Estefania M. Hôtel-Dieu, translated to Hostel of God, has a long history. Currently, it is still a working hospital in Paris, France and the oldest in the region. The hospital dates back all the way to the 7thcentury. It was founded in 651 CE by Saint Landry, the bishop of Paris.[1] His biggest claimContinue reading “Hôtel-Dieu, Paris”
St. Bartholomew’s Hospital
By Garrison D. St. Bartholomew’s Hospital was founded in the city of London in 1123 CE by a man named Rahere. During a pilgrimage to Rome, Rahere had a vision of St. Bartholomew and was inspired to build the hospital in his name.[1] The goal of this hospital was to provide free or cheap medicalContinue reading “St. Bartholomew’s Hospital”
Theodoric Borgogni
By William W. Theodoric of Lucca or Theodoric Borgognoni was an Italian surgeon born in a small Italian village of Lucca in 1205 CE. It is speculated he was the son of Hugh Borgognoni, a master physician who would eventually take Theodoric as his student. Theodoric entered the Order of Preachers at Bologna in 1226 and becameContinue reading “Theodoric Borgogni”
Medieval Leprosaria
By Daniela V. A leprosarium is a hospital for the treatment of lepers. The treatment of medieval lepers varied. Roman Catholic culture valued the persecuted and the suffering because their trials brought them closer to earning salvation, and because lepers suffered on Earth, they were seen as closer to God.[1] Others understood leprosy as an uncleanContinue reading “Medieval Leprosaria”
Hansen’s Disease
By Stephen C. Hansen’s Disease has affected people all throughout human history. According to the CDC, the disease is an infection “caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae,” that can take up to twenty years to cause physical symptoms.[1] Hansen’s Disease is also known as “leprosy,” though in 1873 it was renamed after the scientist who discovered the bacteria.[2]
Medieval Fools
By Santiljan V. Medieval Fools had a difficult job and faced many obstacles. Generally, there were three types of fools. The first fool was the professional fool, employed by nobility. Professional fools were educated and the most talented of the three types of fool. They performed their acts only a few times a year. During the rest ofContinue reading “Medieval Fools”
East Smithfield Plague Cemetery
By Veronica B. East Smithfield represents one of the largest proven plague cemeteries in Europe. When the Black Death reached London in November of 1348, London’s population was estimated to have been about 45,000 – 80,000 people. By the time the plague burned out in London, during the early months of 1350, 30-50% of theContinue reading “East Smithfield Plague Cemetery”
John of Arderne
By Jennifer K. John of Arderne was born in the village of Arderne in Newark, England in 1307 and is credited with contributing to the advancement of the status of surgery in the Middle Ages. Though best known for his surgical work, John’s contribution to the field of pharmacy as well as in his medicalContinue reading “John of Arderne”
Plagues and Peoples: Health and Disease in Medieval Europe 