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Black Plague Europe — Reading Comprehension

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This passage examines the Black Death, a devastating plague that swept through Europe from 1347 to 1351, killing millions and transforming medieval society. Students will learn about its causes, spread via trade routes, and profound effects on population, economy, and social structure. The passage uses primary sources and archaeological evidence, explores how labor shortages led to new rights for workers, and explains how the crisis helped spark the questioning of traditions that led to the Renaissance. Activities include a reading comprehension quiz, writing prompts, graphic organizers, timeline, and Spanish translation. Aligned to CA HSS 7.6.4 and CCSS RH.6-8.2, this resource supports history and ELA standards. Read aloud audio and a glossary of key terms make the passage accessible to diverse learners.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Doutielt3" by Pierart dou Tielt (fl. 1340-1360) / Wikimedia Commons.

The Black Death was one of the deadliest events in European history, arriving in 1347 and spreading rapidly across the continent. The disease, now known as bubonic plague, was carried by fleas living on rats that traveled on merchant ships. Within four years, the epidemic killed between 25 and 50 million people—about one third of Europe’s population. The shock and terror of the Black Death changed European society forever.

The plague’s devastation was felt most strongly in large cities like Florence, Paris, and London. Primary sources, such as the diary of Agnolo di Tura from Siena, describe whole families dying and streets filled with bodies. Archaeological discoveries of mass graves in England provide evidence for the scale of the tragedy. The death toll meant that there were not enough workers to harvest crops, build buildings, or run shops. This labor shortage gave surviving workers more power and allowed many peasants to demand higher wages and better conditions from landowners and city leaders.

The Black Death also caused major social upheaval and led people to question traditional beliefs. Many Europeans wondered why the plague had happened and why the Church and government could not stop it. Some turned to new forms of religious expression, while others blamed minority groups—wrongly and unfairly—for the spread of the disease. Over time, this questioning of old ideas helped lay the foundations for the Renaissance, a period of great cultural and scientific change that began in Italy in the 1300s and 1400s.

Despite the enormous suffering, the Black Death led to important changes. The feudal system, in which peasants worked for powerful lords, began to weaken. As towns and cities recovered, people sought new knowledge and skills, leading to advances in art, science, and literature. The memory of the plague also encouraged Europeans to improve public health and sanitation, though these changes took time to develop.

The Black Death is a powerful example of how geography, disease, and human choices intersect to reshape societies. By studying this event, we can better understand how times of crisis can lead to long-lasting transformation.

Interesting Fact: During the Black Death, some doctors wore long robes and bird-like masks filled with herbs, believing it would protect them from the plague.

When did the Black Death arrive in Europe?

1347140012001501

What caused the Black Death?

Fleas on ratsDirty waterCold weatherAttacking armies

Which city was NOT mentioned?

FlorenceLondonParisRome

Why did workers gain more power?

Many workers diedMore kings ruledChurch gave them landThey found gold

What effect did the plague have on beliefs?

People questioned traditionsEveryone became richScience was ignoredPeople trusted old leaders more

How did the Black Death help cause the Renaissance?

By ending feudalismBy bringing peaceBy starting new warsBy stopping trade