The Impact of the Black Death on Medieval Society

The Black Death, starting in 1347, devastated Europe, causing widespread illness and death. Efforts to avoid the plague, such as wearing protective gear, were largely ineffective. The Roman Catholic Church's influence waned as prayers seemed powerless. Scientific analysis later identified Yersinia pestis as the cause. The plague led to economic and social upheaval, with labor shortages and peasant revolts paving the way for the Renaissance.

What year did the Black Death begin in Southern Italy?

• 1377

• 1347

• 1367

• 1357

What was a common symptom of the Black Death?

• Fever and chills

• Black sores

• Rashes

• Headaches

What was one method people used to try to protect themselves from the plague?

• Burning incense

• Wearing masks filled with herbs

• Drinking herbal tea

• Using holy water

What was the Roman Catholic Church's advice to people during the plague?

• Avoid the sick

• Leave the city

• Pray and confess

• Seek medical help

What did scientists discover as the cause of the Black Death?

• A virus

• A chemical toxin

• Yersinia pestis bacteria

• A fungus

How was the Black Death primarily spread?

• By contaminated water

• Through the air

• Through direct contact

• Via rats and fleas

What was a significant societal change caused by the Black Death?

• Population growth

• Technological advancements

• Labor shortages

• Increased trade

What did the labor shortages after the Black Death lead to?

• More jobs

• Less work

• Lower wages

• Higher wages

What was one of the outcomes of the peasant revolts in Europe?

• Questioning of authority

• End of the Renaissance

• Strengthening of feudalism

• Increase in taxes

What cultural movement was set in motion by the changes after the Black Death?

• The Reformation

• The Enlightenment

• The Industrial Revolution

• The Renaissance