The Black Death and Political Crisis of the 14th Century

The 14th century witnessed one of history's most devastating pandemics and significant political transformations. The text details three major aspects: the Black Death, the Imperial Crisis, and the Church Crisis.

Highlight: The Black Death reached Europe from Asia in 1350, spreading rapidly across the continent.

Definition: Quarantine originated from the practice of isolating people for 40 days, inspired by biblical references such as Moses' time on Mount Sinai and the Great Flood.

Example: Boccaccio, who lived during this period, provided firsthand accounts of the plague's impact on society.

Vocabulary: "Antisemitismo" (Antisemitism) - discrimination and prejudice against Jewish people, which intensified during the plague years.

The Imperial Crisis saw the Holy Roman Empire's authority diminish significantly, particularly with the rise of Italian communes. Despite Emperor Henry VII's attempts to reassert control, imperial power waned as German cities and feudal states gained autonomy. The Golden Bull established the practice of German feudal lords electing emperors, leading to the empire's division into seven states.

Quote: "The imperial power almost vanished with the great German cities and fiefs."

The Church Crisis manifested through the Catholic Church's struggle with temporal power. A significant conflict arose between the Church and Philip the Beautiful of France, culminating in the "Slap of Anagni" incident involving Pope Boniface VIII. The Church's subsequent move to France led to a period of dual papacy, resolved only in 1419 with the Peace of Constance, though the papal seat returned to Rome in 1377.

Highlight: The period of dual papacy represented one of the most significant crises in Church history, fundamentally challenging papal authority.