Dark Vocations 8 – Plague Bearers
The term “plague bearer” historically refers to individuals who played a crucial role during outbreaks of the bubonic plague, particularly during the Great Plague of London in the mid-1660s. These individuals were tasked with the grim and perilous job of collecting the deceased during the night and transporting them for mass burial or cremation.
This was a time when the city of London was ravaged by the bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, leading to the deaths of an estimated 70,000 to 100,000 people out of a population of less than 500,000.
Plague bearers operated under the cover of darkness, moving through the city streets and calling out for families to bring out their dead. This practice was intended to maintain social order and prevent further spread of the disease, as the sight of dead bodies during the day could incite panic among the populace. The role of the plague bearer was not only physically demanding but also emotionally taxing, as they were constantly exposed to the risk of infection and the sorrow of the afflicted families.
The duties of plague bearers were a testament to the resilience and fortitude of those who took on such a role during one of the darkest periods in London’s history. Their work was essential in managing the sheer number of fatalities and in implementing measures to curb the spread of the plague, as dictated by the Lord Mayor’s orders at the time.
In a broader cultural context, the concept of a plague bearer has also been depicted in various forms of art and literature, often symbolizing the inevitability of death and the human struggle against pervasive diseases. This imagery has been carried into modern times, where the term can be found in fantasy settings, such as in the Warhammer universe, where plague bearers are daemonic entities that maintain order among the forces of chaos and disease.
5 Quick Facts About a Dark Time in History
Plague bearers, often associated with the harrowing times of the Black Death, have a history that is both fascinating and somber. Here are five facts about these historical figures:
- Not Present During the Black Death: Contrary to popular belief, plague doctors, often mistaken for plague bearers, did not wear their iconic beak masks during the Black Death pandemic that occurred between 1346 and 1353. These costumes came into existence much later, around 1619, designed by Dr. Charles de Lorme.
- The Hazmat Suits of Their Time: The plague doctor costume was essentially an early version of a hazmat suit. It consisted of a waxen leather coat, a wide-brimmed hat, and a beaked mask filled with herbs and spices. This attire was believed to protect against “poisoned air,” which at the time was thought to be the cause of the plague.
- The Grim Reality of Plague Bearers: Plague bearers had the daunting task of collecting the deceased during outbreaks. During the Great Plague of London in 1665-1666, they would cart the bodies through the streets to mass graves or other disposal sites. It was a profession born out of necessity, often filled by those with few other options.
- A Reflection of Social Hierarchy: Typically, plague bearers were from the lower echelons of society. Despite the risks, it was one of the few available means to earn money, and for many, it was the most they ever made.
- The Enduring Legacy: The image of the plague bearer loudly calling, “Bring out your dead!” while ringing a bell and pushing his cart through dimly lit streets, has remained a symbol of horror and fascination. They are featured in various forms of art and continue to captivate the public’s imagination as a reminder of one of history’s most devastating pandemics.
The historical and cultural significance of the plague bearer is a powerful reminder of humanity’s ongoing battle against pandemics and the importance of those who work tirelessly on the front lines during such crises. It underscores the need for collective action and compassion in the face of widespread suffering and highlights the enduring human spirit in the darkest of times.
© Colin Lawson Books