One of the typical medieval medical equipment in fantasy fiction is the cupping glass. In the real medieval era, it was used for bloodletting in a different way than the lancet. In fantasy, it might have magical properties. There are also wooden splints. They are used to set broken bones. And don't forget the herbal distillation equipment like alembics. They are used to extract the essence of medicinal plants, and in fantasy, the resulting substances might have extraordinary healing powers.
Fantasy medieval medical equipment can be more elaborate and sometimes less practical. Real medieval scalpels were simple and basic, but in fantasy, they could be made of enchanted metals and glow or have the ability to cut through magical substances. Also, in real life, bandages were just cloth, but in fantasy, they could have self - healing or anti - infection properties that go beyond what was possible in the real medieval period. Another difference is that in fantasy, medical equipment might be part of a prophecy or have a greater significance in the overall story arc, which wasn't the case in real - life medieval medicine.
In fantasy fiction, medieval medical is often shown as a mix of herbal remedies and superstition. For example, healers might use poultices made from local plants to treat wounds. There's also the idea of 'humors' which was a real medieval concept, and it often appears in fantasy. They might say a character is ill because their humors are out of balance.
In fantasy fiction, doctors might be depicted as wise healers with magical powers. For example, they could use potions or spells to cure diseases instead of regular medicine. Medical equipment can be very different too. Instead of modern-day scalpels and stethoscopes, there could be enchanted crystals for diagnosing ailments or magical herbs that act as bandages. Sometimes, the doctors themselves are part of a magical race like elves, known for their natural healing abilities.
It often serves as a plot device. For instance, if a character is poisoned, the knowledge of medieval medical antidotes can drive the story forward.
Doctors in fantasy fiction often serve as the ones who bridge the gap between the physical and magical aspects of health. Their medical equipment can be tools for both diagnosis and treatment. For example, a magical amulet might be used to detect the presence of dark magic in a patient. The equipment is not just about fixing physical ailments but also about restoring balance in the magical realm within a person.
One common theme is the battle between good and evil. Knights often represent the good, fighting against dark sorcerers or menacing creatures. Another theme is the quest. Heroes embark on a journey to find a magical artifact or rescue a princess. And the concept of honor is also prevalent. Characters are bound by a code of honor that dictates their actions.
There are also examination tables where patients can lie down for physical examinations. And otoscopes, which are used to examine the ears.
One common theme is the clash between old and new. In this genre, you often see medieval values and ways of life colliding with advanced, science - fictional concepts. For example, a society that adheres to strict medieval social hierarchies might be confronted with the arrival of a powerful, otherworldly technology.
Well, a frequent theme is the role of religion. In the Middle Ages, religion was a very powerful force, and this is reflected in such works. There are often monasteries, priests, and religious quests. Also, the concept of the hero's journey is common. A character from a humble beginning rises to face great challenges. Take Frodo in 'The Lord of the Rings' (which has some medieval - inspired elements). He starts as a simple hobbit but has to carry out a great mission. And, of course, the theme of courtly love, which was a big part of medieval culture, is also seen in many works in this genre.
One common theme is chivalry. Knights are often depicted as noble and following a code of honor. Another is magic, like wizards casting spells. And of course, quests. Characters go on grand adventures to find a magical item or save a kingdom.