Historiography of the Black Death

The historiography of the Black Death involves studying how historians have understood and interpreted this devastating pandemic from the 14th century to today. Initially seen as a divine punishment, modern scholars examine various factors like climate change, trade routes, and hygiene. Over time, perspectives have shifted from religious explanations to scientific analyses of the bacteria causing the plague, Yersinia pestis. Historiography also explores how societal responses, economic impacts, and cultural changes shaped the medieval world. This evolving understanding reflects broader changes in historical methodology and highlights the complex ways humans have experienced and interpreted epidemics.