What is history but people reacting to circumstances throughout the centuries? 

At the time of this writing, I am about two thirds of the way through the audio version of World Without End, (2007). It is an historical fiction, one of four books known as the Kingsbridge Series, authored by Ken Follett. These stories weave tales of intrigue, back stabbing, blind ambition, creative genius, love, war, and plague in the medieval town of Kingsbridge, England.

Well researched and beautifully written, the series provide an accurate reflection of both the day-to-day life and historical events. In World Without End, the Black Death spreads from Europe to England.

What I find fascinating, is the reaction the townspeople have regarding how to manage the disease. At the time, there was no understanding of germs, but the Europeans who’d had more experience, had determined that the spread occurs through close contact with those who are ill.

In fictional Kingsbridge, there is a call to close the weekly market and shops to prevent more people coming into the town. The nuns, who do most of the nursing, adopt the European custom of tying strips of linen over their faces and washing their hands in vinegar and water. 

The priest, with his own personal agenda at stake, argues that the plague is an act of God and therefore all these precautions are heretical, or fake. Business people object to closing their shops for the very good reason they can’t afford to. In the midst and panic of the crisis, the townspeople are arguing.

It is historical fiction, I know, but I think there is a valid point to be made. Over time, through generations and centuries, people don’t change as much as technology and innovations change. Faced with similar circumstances, people react with similar behaviours and the world goes round again. 

Stay safe everyone.

Anne Milne is an every Sunday blogger.  Facebook or Twitter.