The Myth Of Fourteenth Century Europe - 845 Words

During a period within fourteenth century Europe, a pestilence known as the bubonic plague swept across eastern Asia and into England via trade, leaving millions dead in its wake. The Black Plague arrived at a time of war and famine in Europe, only further devastating the lives of medieval citizens. Religiously, socially, and politically, there were no immediate changes from the Black Plague, however, a Catholic schism, the ability for social mobility, and standing armies would develop in the following years, ultimately leading to sizable differences in life. The essence of fourteenth century European life revolved around the Roman Catholic Church; the papacy asserted spiritual rule and every individual was devoted to God and their beliefs. Therefore, when the plague hit Europe and killed one third to one half of the entire population, people questioned God as to why He would kill entire towns across the continent. Communities prayed for forgiveness, believing they had committed a sin large enough to deserve such a disease, however, clergymen, priests, and average citizens alike fell ill to the Black Plague, and none were spared. After the plague diminished from Europe, the church had a schism which entailed three popes at a single time, and the Renaissance led to a humanistic movement where people began to turn to individualism. This new found set of ideals would further lead to a sixteenth century reformation of the church, altering the course of history. The citizens ofShow MoreRelatedThe Italian Renaissance Essay749 Words   |  3 P agesand learning among art, law, language, literature, philosophy, science, and mathematics. This period took place between the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries. The Renaissance in Italy flourished in the 15th century and spread throughout most of Europe in the 16th century. What was the Renaissance and why did it happen? 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