Lecture on Classical Influences on Anglo-Saxon Medicine

Main Influences on Anglo-Saxon Medicine

• Judeo-Christian Tradition
• Classical Texts
• Northern European Herb Law

Classical Texts

• Disseminated largely through monasteries.
• Some lay physicians trained in classical methods, particularly in Galenic precepts such as the doctrine of humours.
• Belief that all substances have medicinal value, more uncommon substances deemed more powerful.
  • Promoted the idea of crystal therapy in the Middle Ages.
• Rituals for preparation of medicinal substances became increasingly complex, believed to enhance the effectiveness.

Northern European Herb Law

• Not a written tradition; evidence is patchy.
• Utilized a threefold approach:
  1. Spell Medicine
     • Ritual-based, possible shamanic practices.
     • Influenced by Judeo-Christian rituals.
  2. Knife Medicine
     • Surgery, including bloodletting.
     • Incorporated classical bloodletting ideas.
  3. Herb Medicine
     • Likely based on Germanic folk practices.
     • Evidence found in texts such as the Leech Books of Bald, Lachnunga, and the Old English Herbarium.
     • These texts mix Christian prayers, classical knowledge, and native Anglo-Saxon lore.

Salerno Medical School

• Established in the 10th century in Salerno, Italy.
• Became a key hub for medical ideas in Europe.
• Based on Hippocratic and Greco-Roman traditions.
• Notable figures:
  • Trotula: Writings on female physiology, anatomy, and sexuality (authorship disputed).
  • Hildegard of Bingen: 12th-century saint, mystic, and healer recognized for her music, medical, and spiritual writings.
    • Began writing to record visions, later focused on gynecology and fertility.
    • Treatments with herbs, animal remedies, and gemstones.

Muthfai School in Wales

• A Hippocratic school established in the 12th century.
• Known for common-sense, empirical approach using simple herbs.
• Advocated moderation in all habits (eating, exercise, labor, meditation).
• Used approximately 175 different herbs, examples include:
  • Cleavers for scrofula.
  • Hyssop for tight chest.
  • Vervain, betony, chamomile, and fennel for headaches.

References for Further Reading

• Stephen Pollington’s book on Anglo-Saxon herbal texts.
• Graham Tobin’s "Cool Peppers Medicine," soon to be reprinted.

These notes summarize the influences and development of medical practices in medieval times, highlighting the intersection of classical, Christian, and local traditions.