Page 1: Religious Influences and Medical Practices

The first page explores how medieval medicine was influenced by both Christian and Islamic traditions. Medical treatments were primarily based on the Theory of Four Humours and Galen's teachings, with practitioners attempting to restore balance through various interventions.

Definition: The Theory of Four Humours proposed that the body contained four vital fluids that needed to be in balance for good health.

Example: Blood-letting was used as a natural treatment when someone had a nosebleed, as it was believed to indicate an excess of blood.

Highlight: Islamic medicine was considered more advanced than Western medicine during this period, largely due to fewer religious restrictions on medical practice.

The text details various medical practitioners, including monastery healers, local wise women, and private physicians. Each group had their distinct approach to healing, though all were influenced by religious beliefs and ancient medical knowledge.

Quote: "The Qur'an tells Muslims to help the sick and give money to charity. Some of this spent on building hospitals."