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GCSE English Literature · key term
Scrofula, a disease traditionally believed to be curable by a monarch’s touch. In Macbeth, Edward’s reported healing power represents holy, beneficial kingship.
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Paper 2
Revise: Power and kingshipThe Doctor and Malcolm report that the English king heals sufferers of the king’s evil through his touch and holy prayers. This represents a traditional belief about royal healing. Within the play, Edward’s reported power is beneficial and heaven-sanctioned: he heals bodies while Macbeth makes Scotland bleed.
Component 1
A historical name for scrofula, a disease associated with swollen lymph nodes in the neck, which monarchs were believed to heal through the royal touch.
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Malcolm describes Edward healing sufferers of the king’s evil through touch and prayer. This reflects a historical belief in royal healing power, not an established medical cure. Within the play, its purpose is clear: Edward heals bodies, whereas Macbeth makes Scotland bleed.
