‘The greatest evil is physical pain’: an exploration of suffering from a medieval Austin Friary in Cambridge, UK using an ‘Avatar Model.’

Abstract

This study investigates the osteobiographical and osteological analysis of 11 individuals from the Cambridge Austin Friary, spanning AD 1302–1538. The research contextualises skeletal remains within broader historical, ethical and sociocultural frameworks, emphasising the complex interplay between empirical data and interpretative reconstruction. The proposed ‘Avatar Model’ allows for imaginative reconstructions of lived experiences while mitigating the risk of speculative narratives. Integrating osteological evidence with historical and clinical knowledge, the study provides insights into pain, suffering and behaviour, enriching the understanding of past human experiences in religious and urban medieval contexts. This study also addresses ethical concerns regarding the treatment and interpretation of human remains, highlighting the need for a careful balance between scientific inquiry and respect for past populations.