The Role of Religion in Medieval Medicine

What role did religion and superstition play in medicine in the Middle Ages?

Religion and superstition were probably the most significant influences on health and medicine in the Middle Ages. While religion did help it progress in some ways, overall they had a stagnating effect.

What are some examples of religion influencing medicine in the Middle Ages?

Here are 3 main examples of the role that religion played:

• ❖ The Church controlled the universities, hospitals and the production of books.
• ❖ Health was better at Christian monasteries as they were isolated but were still near to rivers.
• ❖ The Church supported the ideas of Galen, which were mistaken, and wouldn't allow anyone to challenge these beliefs, thereby hindering progress.