Final answer:
In medieval Europe, mental illness was predominantly attributed to demonic possession, reflecting the period's reliance on religious and supernatural explanations for phenomena not understood scientifically at the time. Enlightenment thinkers later began to view mental illness as an organic, observable affliction.
Step-by-step explanation:
In medieval Europe, mental illness was often thought to be caused by b) Demonic possession. This reflects the period's deep religious beliefs and lack of scientific understanding of physical and mental health conditions.
During this era, many societal misunderstandings stemmed from religious, astrological, and supernatural factors. Illnesses, including mental health issues, were commonly attributed to these causes rather than the biological and environmental factors that we understand today. The perception was that mental illnesses were a form of punishment or a result of spiritual and moral failings, rather than conditions that could be treated through medical intervention. This led to treatments and responses that were often more related to spiritual or religious practices, rather than focused on physical or psychological care.
Historical perspectives on mental illness evolved significantly over time. By the Enlightenment, figures like Esquirol and Georget began to conceptualize mental illness as an organic affliction, challenging the previously held beliefs about demonic possession and moral failings as root causes.