Hygiene In The Middle Ages Quiz

Explanation
Throughout history, the definition of hygiene has differed across cultures. One aspect that has remained consistent is the emphasis on personal cleanliness. This refers to the practices and habits individuals adopt to maintain their personal hygiene, such as bathing, washing hands, and brushing teeth. Public cleanliness, on the other hand, pertains to the cleanliness of shared spaces and communities. Clarity, although a desirable trait, is unrelated to the concept of hygiene. Therefore, the correct answer is personal cleanliness.

Explanation
The given statement suggests that contrary to popular belief, people have not become cleaner over time. This implies that the common assumption that cleanliness has improved over time is incorrect. The statement indicates that there is no evidence to support the idea that people have become cleaner as time has passed.

Explanation
Regular bathing as an important part of personal hygiene has been practiced for centuries, making it an old tradition rather than a modern one. The concept of regularly cleansing oneself to maintain cleanliness and prevent diseases has been ingrained in various cultures since ancient times. Therefore, the correct answer is "old one."

Explanation
During the Middle Ages in Europe, public bath-houses were commonly referred to as "stews" by the common people who used them. This term likely originated from the Latin word "stuppa," which means a hot bath. The public bath-houses served as a place for people to cleanse themselves and socialize. They were an important part of medieval society and played a role in maintaining hygiene and health. The term "stews" became synonymous with these bath-houses and was widely used by the common people to describe them.

Explanation
The correct answer is bubonic plague. The bubonic plague was a highly contagious and often fatal bacterial disease that spread across much of the world during the 14th century. It was transmitted through fleas that infested rats, causing swollen lymph nodes and other severe symptoms in humans. This pandemic, also known as the Black Death, had a devastating impact on populations, leading to widespread death and social disruption.

Explanation
During the time of the Black Death, a deadly pandemic that ravaged Europe in the 14th century, public health measures were implemented to contain the spread of the disease. One of these measures was the closure of public gathering places, including public baths. This was done to prevent people from coming into close contact with each other and potentially spreading the infection. Therefore, the closure of public baths was a necessary precautionary measure taken during the Black Death.

Explanation
Placing water on the skin is believed to open the pores. This is because water can help soften the skin, making it more pliable and allowing the pores to expand. When the pores are open, it is thought that disease-causing agents may have an easier time entering the body through the skin.

Explanation
During the 1400s and 1500s, plumbing was fairly primitive, meaning it was basic and undeveloped. In large cities, sewage was not properly managed, and it flowed down streets and gutters in open streams. This led to a foul smell and the spread of diseases.

Explanation
During the 16th century, the preferred way of cleansing the body was to wipe it with white linen cloths. These cloths were believed to have healing properties, making them the preferred choice for personal hygiene. The color white may have been associated with purity and cleanliness, further reinforcing the belief in its healing properties.

Explanation
The soap was invented in the orient and brought back to Europe during the eleventh century by soldiers returning from the religious Crusades.