The Midwife's Apprentice

The Midwife’s Apprentice is set during medieval times, when most women gave birth at home surrounded by their families and with the help of a midwife. The term “midwife” is derived from Middle English and means “with woman.” Midwives of the time rarely received any type of formal education or training. Rather, their credentials were as simplistic as age or having given birth to several children of their own. The process of guiding a mother through childbirth was unregulated, and techniques incorporated a mix of superstition, logic, and knowledge of herbal medicines, all three of which Cushman references in the novel. Like midwives of the time, Jane uses tinctures and mixtures made from herbal ingredients, as well as techniques such as calling the baby forth from the womb. Though not always effective, these techniques were considered staples of the profession and important knowledge, as evidenced by the magister’s meeting with Jane to discuss her skills. While Jane is an example of a competent—if crude—midwife, not all midwives were so skilled, which often resulted in death of mother, child, or both.

Herbal medicines were the main component of midwifery in medieval times, and Jane makes use of many herbs, such as birthwort (for inducing contractions), wormwood (for pain relief), and lady’s mantle (to staunch bleeding). Many of these herbal remedies have been passed down through generations and are still used in medicines today, including smut rye to induce contractions and belladonna to ease uterine cramps. Cushman applies other superstitions to Jane’s approach to midwifery: She avoids certain plants because of their shape or smell and brings other materials to births, such as rubies, either ground into a powder or held by the mother. Starting in the 16th century, during Henry VIII’s rule, midwifery began to be regulated, and as doctors entered the scene, the field of medicine cast midwives aside. However, from the mid-20th century through the present, midwives have seen a resurgence, and combined with more modern medical techniques, plus the option to be brought to a hospital if major complications occur, individuals have been able to deliver babies at home if they so choose.