New Books Network Bruno J. Strasser and Thomas Schlich, "The Mask: A History of Breathing Bad Air" (Yale UP, 2025)
Jan 13, 2026
Thomas Schlich, a historian of medicine with a background in medical training, joins the discussion on his co-authored work, diving into the history of masks and their cultural significance. He and Bruno J. Strasser explore fascinating stories about masks from various historical contexts, revealing how societal beliefs shape mask-wearing. They debunk myths about plague-doctor masks, investigate the genderization of masks, and trace the evolution of surgical and gas masks through pivotal moments like World War I, all while reflecting on lessons for today's world.
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Plague Beak Was Satire, Not PPE
- The iconic beaked plague-doctor mask is a 17th-century satirical image, not actual protective gear worn in epidemics.
- Bruno J. Strasser and Thomas Schlich show the images mocked doctors and were copied across Europe, not documentary evidence.
Early Masks Masked Smell, Not Germs
- Pre-19th-century face coverings aimed to neutralize foul smells because bad odor equaled disease.
- People soaked cloths in vinegar or carried pomanders to change the air's smell, not to filter particles.
Masks Became Gendered Objects
- In the 19th century doctors urged masks but rarely wore them themselves, tied to gendered views of masculinity.
- Masks became associated with femininity in Europe, shaping resistance among men and affecting public uptake.
