'The role of the Church was the main reason why there was little change in care and treatment in the years c1250-c1500.' How far do you agree? Explain your answer - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1

During the years c1250-c1500, the Church exerted considerable influence over medical training, as most universities where medicine was taught were church-sponsored. Medical knowledge was primarily derived from ancient texts, especially those of Galen, whose theories were often dogmatically accepted. However, discussions during this period, albeit limited, began to challenge these established ideas, particularly towards the end of the period with the Renaissance influencing more critical approaches to medical training.

Herbal remedies were widely used throughout this time and were often provided by wise women or local healers, independent of the Church's influence. The reliance on these remedies indicates that while the Church's doctrines guided official medical practices, the common populace sought alternative treatments, highlighting a degree of continuity in traditional healing methods despite the Church's authority.

In conclusion, while the Church indeed played a pivotal role in shaping the framework of care and treatment through its influence on medical training and practices, the presence of herbal remedies and the rise of independent medical practitioners unveil a more nuanced picture. Therefore, one could argue that the Church was a significant factor but not the sole reason for the limited change in healthcare practices from c1250-c1500.