Alanna Skuse

Obstetrical forceps, designed by the Chamberlen family in the 1600s. Wellcome Collection. Public Domain.

Doctor Chamberlen’s Forceps

Childbirth in the early modern period was a battleground between midwives and surgeons. The Chamberlen family of surgeons sought to reform the system with a revolutionary new tool: the forceps.

A lecture on the nervous system, by C. Bethmont, c.1860. Wellcome Collection. Public Domain.

A History of Phantom Pain

For centuries, scientists and philosophers used phantom limbs to unravel the secrets of the human mind. While we know phantom pain exists, we still don’t know why.

Bronze parade mask perhaps worn by male soldiers representing the Amazons. Nola, Italy, second century.

Renaissance Wonder Women

To Renaissance audiences, the mythical Amazons were exotic, mysterious and revealed hidden truths about their own society.

Saving Face

Saving Face

The Renaissance face provided clues about the wealth and health of its owner. Those who had been disfigured were often mistreated, but to alter one’s appearance carried a stigma of its own. 

Patient under restraint. 17th-century engraving by J. Droit © Mary Evans Picture Library.

Desperate Measures

Driven to extremes by the expectations loaded on them, some men turned to self-castration.