Did People in the Black Plague Know About the Epidemic?

The Black Plague, also known as the Black Death, struck Europe in the mid-14th century, from 1347 to 1351. It is widely documented that people during this period were aware of a severe epidemic that was happening. However, their understanding of the disease's origins and the role of the bacterium Yersinia pestis was limited.

The Awareness of the Epidemic

People in Europe certainly recognized that a catastrophic event was unfolding. Similar symptoms were observed, including fever, chills, and painful swellings under the skin (buboes). These symptoms were well-documented in various historical sources, and the Black Death's spread was rapid and widespread, leading to significant social upheaval and economic changes.

Understanding the Cause

People's understanding of the cause of the Black Death was deeply rooted in their cultural and religious beliefs. They attributed the epidemic to various factors, including divine punishment, bad air (miasma), supernatural forces, and even drastic social upheaval. Such a lack of scientific knowledge meant that they could not recognize the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which was the true cause of the devastation.

Documentation and Historical Accounts

Observations and accounts of the Black Death were well-documented in various texts. Giovanni Boccaccio, an Italian writer, compiled a thorough account in his The Decameron through 100 novellas. Other notable accounts include:

The Black Death: A Chronicle of the Plague by J. Nohl The Black Death: A New History of a Forgotten Plague by Samuel K. Cohn Jr. The Black Death by Rosemary Horrox, which includes an extensive collection of written source material

These works provide valuable insights into the lives of those affected by the Black Death, the symptoms observed, and the societal impact of the pandemic.

Historical Context

It is important to note that the Black Death was not the first or the last plague to hit Europe. The Justinian Plague, which is dated from 541–542 AD, also caused by the same bacterium, Yersinia pestis, fell during the Byzantine period. The Justinian Plague was particularly significant but was followed by several smaller outbreaks throughout the medieval period.

Despite being called the "Dark Ages" by some, the Middle Ages were characterized by strong oral traditions and well-documented history. People in the 14th century were aware of regional outbreaks of plague and its deadly nature, especially in the larger cities with poor sanitation and high rat populations. These cities were often also the trading capitals of Europe, and news of the plague spread quickly even to regions not directly affected by the disease.

In conclusion, while people in the 14th century recognized a severe epidemic was occurring, their understanding of its cause was limited. The Black Death had a profound impact on society, leading to widespread fear, social upheaval, and significant changes in demographics and the economy. Historical documentation provides a rich tapestry of this tragic period.