Caring for the sick in a medieval rural community: A study based on paleopathological and archaeological data from Medieval Rus’

Abstract

ObjectiveThis research seeks to identify the way the sick were treated in the 14th–15th centuries АD in a rural community located close to the medieval urban centre of Suzdal in central medieval Russia MaterialsSkeletons of 26 humans were examined from the cemetery associated with the rural settlement of Mikhali 3/Mininskoe (central Russia) (14th–15th centuries A.D.) MethodsArchaeological study, paleodemographic analysis, description of physiological stress markers, stature reconstruction, X-ray, 3D scan. ResultsThe remains comprised of 11 children, 11 adult females and 4 adult males. Numerous stress markers, as well as indicators of chronic disease and low levels of sexual dimorphism were noted suggesting a hard life and low social position. However, about 20% of adults lived to more than 40 years old and the archaeological artifacts – markers of prosperity –suggests high living standards of the majority of the inhabitants. ConclusionsAmong the possible explanations of the paradox of poor health but ample access to resources is well-developed supportive care practice within the community. SignificanceA combination of bioarchaeological and archaeological studies of a medieval settlement and cemetery of Mikhali 3 offers information about medieval attitude towards the sick. LimitationsFew sites had been analyzed using a complex approach. Suggestions for further researchCombination of bioarchaeological and archaeological sources for estimation of life quality of medieval communities and clarification of their meaning of ‘life quality’.