AN N EA research paper

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School

University of California, Los Angeles *

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M60

Subject

Medicine

Date

Jan 9, 2024

Type

pdf

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Uploaded by ChancellorThunderCrane11

Paper instructions: 3,000 word research paper on some aspect of medical practice in ancient Mesopotamia , Egypt, or the Levant. Throughout your project, you should endeavor to adopt an emic (i.e., “insider”) perspective. In particular, your paper should pay close attention to and situate your topic in its socio-historical context – It includes the social structure, social classes, gender roles, division of labor, and other characteristics that shape the society and culture of that time. That is to say, you should do your best to allow the cultural concerns and conceptual categories of the ancient world to guide your research rather than imposing a 21st Century perspective on the data. You should be able to explain cultural phenomena without making qualitative judgments (e.g., good, bad, advanced, primitive, etc.). Incorporate at least three primary and eight secondary sources. ● The treatment of specific conditions or diseases – Ancient Mesopotamia Do your best to provide a clear, narrowly-focused, argumentative thesis statement. Additionally, you will submit a potential outline of your paper (one-page minimum). It is expected that both your thesis statement and outline will evolve as the research process progresses, but these will hopefully be a good foundation for your paper moving forward. OUTLINE Thesis: The treatment of specific conditions or diseases in ancient Mesopotamia was fundamentally shaped by the intricate interplay of cultural beliefs, religious practices, and limited medical knowledge, resulting in a medical system deeply rooted in supernatural explanations, natural remedies, and the inﬂuence of priests and healers. Cultural and Religious Beliefs: Mesopotamian society was characterized by its polytheistic religion, where various gods and goddesses were believed to have control over di±erent aspects of life, including health and disease. Medical practices were often intertwined with religious rituals and o±erings to appease the gods and seek their assistance in healing.

Sources: (Primary Text 1) Role of Priests and Healers: In ancient Mesopotamia, there was a strong connection between religious figures (priests) and healing practices. Priests were often responsible for diagnosing illnesses and administering treatments based on their knowledge of religious rituals and medical techniques. Healers, who were distinct from priests, also played a role in providing medical care. Sources: Use of Natural Remedies: Ancient Mesopotamian medicine heavily relied on natural remedies derived from plants, minerals, and animals. Many of these remedies were recorded in cuneiform tablets and included ingredients like herbs, oils, and minerals. These treatments were often administered in the form of poultices, ointments, or oral preparations. Sources: (Primary Text 1) Inﬂuence of Magical and Supernatural Practices: Magical and supernatural beliefs played a significant role in Mesopotamian medicine. Incantations, spells, and rituals were often used alongside physical treatments to alleviate illnesses. The belief in evil spirits causing diseases also led to the use of amulets and charms for protection. Sources: (Secondary Text 1) Limited Medical Understanding : The medical knowledge of ancient Mesopotamia was limited compared to modern standards. While they had identified various diseases and had some understanding of anatomy, their understanding of the underlying causes of diseases was often intertwined with supernatural beliefs. Sources: (secondary text 2) Social Hierarchy and Healthcare: Access to healthcare and medical treatments in ancient Mesopotamia was likely stratified along social lines. Wealthier individuals likely had better access to healthcare due to their ability to a±ord treatments and the inﬂuence of priests and healers.

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