"Green Children" delves into the enduring medieval mystery of two children with green skin found in 12th-century Suffolk. Examining historical anomalies through the lenses of science and history, the book analyzes primary source accounts alongside potential medical explanations for their unusual pigmentation. The book explores the historical context, considering the limited medical knowledge and cultural exchanges of the era to understand what can be credibly stated about this strange occurrence. Did a rare skin condition explain their color or was folklore at play? The book adopts a balanced approach, evaluating both historical and scientific possibilities rather than accepting the tale as purely factual or mythical. Investigating medieval chronicles, medical history, and cultural exchange, the work seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the case. It's crucial to understand medieval societal structures and beliefs to avoid misinterpreting the story through a modern perspective.
Structured in three parts, the book first introduces the original accounts and their historical setting. It then explores potential medical conditions that might cause green skin, assessing their plausibility in the 12th century. Finally, it analyzes the impact of cultural exchange on local narratives, culminating in a reasoned perspective on the events while acknowledging the limitations of drawing firm conclusions.