Humanity has always been struck by pestilence and pandemics, from the plagues of ancient Egypt to the pox that ravaged Europe in the Middle Ages, to Covid-19. People living through the crises have always recorded what they saw, what they felt, and what they did. Some presented sober facts laced with anecdote, while others produced emotional outpourings; moralists speculated on the origins of the horror, poets distilled the suffering. Doctors described how they were able to advance their understanding of disease and scientists how to cure it, while survivors and the families of victims gave the inside story of the nightmare that develops when a long-feared disease enters your home or your body.
There was a time when to read accounts of the Plague in Wittenburg by Martin Luther or the Great Plague of 1665 by Samuel Pepys scenes of anguish and woe, empty streets, quarantined houses, closed businesses, overflowing graveyards, heroic doctors and nurses, quack remedies and charlatans was to enter a disturbing and unfamiliar world. Today, to read the same words is to be hit by a jolt of recognition and understanding. As well as causing a huge loss of life, the Covid pandemic has taught us a great deal about ourselves and the way we live, illuminating tensions at the heart of society. This collection of intimate and revelatory first-hand accounts of pandemics through the ages bears witness to despair, rage, the blackest of humour, heartbreak and hope. These voices hold up a mirror to our own experiences of, and responses to, the crisis today.
**Delve into Centuries of Crisis: Plague, Pestilence and Pandemic - A Hardcover Historical Journey** Explore the harrowing and deeply human history of pandemics through firsthand accounts in "Plague, Pestilence and Pandemic," a compelling hardcover collection curated by Peter Furtado. Published by Thames & Hudson in 2021, this book offers a unique and timely perspective on humanity's enduring struggle against disease, offering resonance with our contemporary experiences. Furtado, a respected historian, skillfully weaves together a tapestry of voices from across time, inviting readers to witness history unfold through the eyes of those who lived it. From Martin Luther's vivid depictions of the plague in Wittenburg to Samuel Pepys's gripping chronicle of the Great Plague of London, this volume presents a diverse range of personal narratives. These are not just dry historical records; they are visceral accounts of anguish, fear, resilience, and, surprisingly, even moments of dark humor in the face of unimaginable adversity. What sets this book apart is its ability to bridge the gap between the past and the present. Reading these historical accounts today, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, evokes a powerful sense of dj vu. The familiar scenes of empty streets, quarantined homes, overwhelmed hospitals, and the search for cures both genuine and dubious resonate deeply with our own recent experiences. "Plague, Pestilence and Pandemic" doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of these crises. It confronts the societal tensions, moral debates, and the often-uneven distribution of suffering that pandemics expose. It delves into the heroic efforts of doctors and nurses, the desperate search for solutions, and the profound impact on families and communities. Beyond the suffering, the book reveals the remarkable capacity for human adaptation, innovation, and the enduring power of hope. This collection provides a space to re-evaluate your own pandemic experience in the context of history. Furtado has compiled an inclusive and powerful read, highlighting societal flaws and inspiring new research. Expect to find familiar themes throughout the book, as human nature is constant. This hardcover edition, spanning 304 pages, is more than just a historical document; it is a mirror reflecting our shared humanity in times of crisis. Peter Furtado's insightful selection and arrangement of these primary sources offer invaluable lessons about resilience, community, and the enduring human spirit. A valuable addition to any history lover, medical professional, or curious readers bookshelf. Order your copy today and embark on a journey through centuries of plagues, pestilence, and pandemics. Discover the resilience of humanity and the lessons we can learn from the past as we navigate the challenges of the present. ISBN: 9780500252581.