After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal
Black Death: Scapegoats & Persecution
Mar 30, 2025
Join historian Joshua Teplitsky from the University of Pennsylvania as he dives into the dark legacy of the Black Death. He uncovers how this devastating plague led to the horrific scapegoating of Jewish communities, particularly the violent accusations in Strasbourg. Teplitsky reveals the dangerous intersection of fear and authority, where institutionalized anti-Semitism thrived. The discussion not only highlights the tragic consequences of these events but also emphasizes themes of resilience and communal support during times of crisis.
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Quick takeaways
- The Black Death incited a tragic wave of antisemitism as Jews were scapegoated and brutally persecuted for the plague's devastation.
- The systematic violence against Jews during this period highlights the manipulation of public fear by authorities to legitimize discrimination.
Deep dives
The Rise of Antisemitism During the Black Death
During the Black Death in 1348, fear and desperation led many Europeans to seek a scapegoat for the plague's devastation. Jews were falsely accused of causing the disease, fueled by deeply ingrained antisemitic sentiments and conspiracy theories claiming they were responsible for poisoning wells. As evidence of these accusations amassed through torture and confessions, Jews faced brutal persecution and mass killings in numerous European cities. The violent response to these unfounded claims exemplified how fear and social panic could manifest in catastrophic violence against marginalized communities.
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