Bartholomäus Metlinger

German physician and author

Bartholomäus Metlinger was a notable German physician of the late 15th century, recognized for his contributions to pediatrics and his influential writings on child care and health. His work, "Regimen der jungen Kinder", is considered one of the earliest comprehensive guides on pediatric care in Europe.

Biography

Bartholomäus Metlinger was born in the 15th century in Augsburg, a city in the Holy Roman Empire. Little is known about his early life and education, but it is believed that he studied medicine at a university in the region, possibly in Ingolstadt or Vienna, which were prominent centers of learning at the time.

Metlinger practiced medicine in Augsburg, where he gained a reputation for his expertise in treating children. His interest in pediatrics was pioneering, as the field was not yet well-established in medieval Europe.

Regimen der jungen Kinder

A depiction of a swaddled baby from "Regimen der jungen Kinder"

In 1473, Metlinger published "Regimen der jungen Kinder" ("Regimen of Young Children"), a groundbreaking work that provided detailed guidance on the care and health of infants and young children. The book was written in Middle High German, making it accessible to a broader audience beyond the scholarly community.

The "Regimen der jungen Kinder" covers various aspects of child care, including nutrition, hygiene, and the treatment of common childhood illnesses. Metlinger emphasized the importance of proper diet and cleanliness, advocating for practices that were advanced for his time. He also discussed the use of swaddling, a common practice in medieval Europe, and provided advice on how to do it safely.

Influence and Legacy

Metlinger's work had a significant impact on the field of pediatrics and the care of children in Europe. His book was widely read and used by physicians and midwives, contributing to a better understanding of child health and development.

The "Regimen der jungen Kinder" was one of the first texts to systematically address the health needs of children, laying the groundwork for future developments in pediatric medicine. Metlinger's emphasis on hygiene and nutrition foreshadowed modern practices in child care.

Related pages

• Pediatrics
• History of medicine
• Augsburg