‘There was little progress in understanding the cause of disease in the years c1250–c1700.’ How far do you agree? Explain your answer - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1

The Great Plague of 1665 is a critical event illustrating the response to disease. In response to the outbreak, authorities implemented drastic measures, like the order to destroy dogs and cats perceived as disease carriers. This shift indicates an evolving perception of disease causation, suggesting a departure from purely supernatural explanations toward a more systematic approach.

Thomas Sydenham, often referred to as the 'English Hippocrates,' played a pivotal role in advancing medical understanding. He advocated for observation and classification of diseases and argued against the dominant humoral theory. His significant work in differentiating diseases laid foundational knowledge for future advancements, highlighting a progression in thought during this period.

While it may appear that progress was limited between 1250 and 1700, significant steps forward in understanding disease were taken, particularly in response to the Great Plague and through the work of figures like Sydenham. The period should be viewed as one of transition rather than stagnation, recognizing incremental improvements in medical knowledge and practices.