The Black Death
Short History Of...
00:00
The Black Death and the Art of the Poor
A chronicle composed at the Cathedral Priory of Rochester in England elaborates on some of the social changes, as well as revealing some deep-seated prejudices against the poor. It reads as follows: A great mortality destroyed more than a third of the men, women, and children. As a result, there was such a shortage of servants, craftsmen, and workmen that a great many lords and people were yet without service and attendance. Such a shortage of workers ensued that the humble turned up their noses at employment and could scarcely be persuaded to serve the eminent unless for triple wages. Instead, because of the dolls handed out at funerals, those who once had to work now began
Play episode from 42:21
Transcript
