Black Death

Definition

The Black Death was a devastating pandemic that struck Europe from 1347 to 1351, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which was primarily spread through fleas and rats. It resulted in the death of an estimated one-third of Europe's population and significantly impacted social, economic, and political structures during the period. Its repercussions are evident in literature, including works that reflect the turmoil and changes brought about by this catastrophe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Black Death led to significant labor shortages, causing wages to rise as workers became more valuable, leading to the eventual decline of the feudal system.
2. Many people turned to religion during the Black Death, seeking solace and understanding; however, others lost faith due to the indiscriminate nature of the plague.
3. The epidemic resulted in widespread social upheaval, including violent uprisings such as the Peasants' Revolt in England in 1381.
4. The fear and chaos surrounding the Black Death contributed to a rise in superstitions and extremism, including anti-Semitic sentiments as communities sought someone to blame.
5. Chaucer’s works reflect the influence of the Black Death by capturing the shifts in society, morality, and human behavior that emerged during this tumultuous time.

Review Questions

• How did the Black Death influence the social structure of medieval Europe?
  • The Black Death drastically altered the social structure of medieval Europe by creating severe labor shortages as a significant portion of the population perished. This shift allowed surviving workers to demand higher wages and better working conditions, which weakened feudalism and diminished the power of landlords. The redistribution of wealth and change in labor dynamics fostered greater social mobility and laid the groundwork for a new societal order.
• In what ways did Chaucer's writing reflect the cultural impact of the Black Death on society?
  • Chaucer’s writing reflects the cultural impact of the Black Death by capturing themes of mortality, human behavior, and moral complexity in his characters. The societal upheaval caused by the pandemic is evident in 'The Canterbury Tales,' where individuals from diverse backgrounds share stories that reveal their fears, beliefs, and aspirations amidst uncertainty. Chaucer’s portrayal of a society grappling with loss illustrates how deeply intertwined literature became with contemporary realities shaped by the plague.
• Evaluate how the Black Death served as a catalyst for change in political thought and governance during Chaucer's time.
  • The Black Death served as a catalyst for change in political thought by exposing vulnerabilities within feudal governance structures and prompting discussions about authority and rights. As peasants sought better treatment and wages, there were shifts toward more centralized forms of governance that aimed to stabilize society. This evolution can be observed in Chaucer's works as he highlights emerging themes of justice and social order, reflecting broader changes in political consciousness that arose in response to the disruptions caused by the pandemic.

Related terms

Yersinia pestis: A bacterium that is the causative agent of the plague, responsible for the Black Death and spread mainly through flea bites and contact with infected animals.

Feudalism:

A social and economic system prevalent in medieval Europe, characterized by the exchange of land for military service, which was heavily impacted by the population decline due to the Black Death.

Scapegoating: The act of blaming individuals or groups for societal problems, which increased during the Black Death as certain communities, particularly Jews, were unfairly blamed for spreading the plague.