Johann Wier
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Johann Wier
JOHANN WIER German physician, notable for his investigation of cases of supposed demonic possession, which he ascribed to sickness rather than the devils work. Date: 1515 - 1588
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Media ID 14108591
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1515 1588 Ascribed Cases Demonic Devil Investigation Johann Notable Physician Possession Sickness Supposed Wier
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "Johann Wier: The Empathic Exorcist" Johann Wier (1515-1588), a renowned German physician, is depicted in this portrait. Born in Xanten, Westphalia, Wier is best known for his groundbreaking investigations into cases of supposed demonic possession during the late 16th century. During an era when the belief in witchcraft and demonic possession was widespread, Wier approached these cases with a unique perspective. Instead of attributing the afflictions to the devil's work, he believed that many of these instances could be explained by natural causes, such as sickness or mental illness. Wier's ideas were revolutionary for the time, and his seminal work, "De Praestigis Daemonum," or "On the Tricks of Demons," challenged the prevailing beliefs of the Church and society. In this influential book, he argued that many of the symptoms attributed to demonic possession could be explained by medical conditions, such as epilepsy, hysteria, or neurological disorders. Wier's approach was not without controversy. His unconventional views put him at odds with the Church and the Inquisition, which saw his work as a threat to their authority. Despite the risks, Wier remained steadfast in his beliefs, believing that a compassionate and rational approach was the best way to help those believed to be possessed. This photograph print, capturing the enigmatic figure of Johann Wier, serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment in the history of medicine and the human understanding of mental and neurological conditions. Wier's work paved the way for future investigations into the nature of possession and the role of the mind and body in shaping our experiences.
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