Description
The Great Plague is a gripping historical fiction or nonfiction topic that explores one of the deadliest outbreaks in British history—the Great Plague of London in 1665. It vividly portrays the fear, chaos, and devastation caused by the spread of the bubonic plague, which killed around 100,000 people, nearly a quarter of London’s population.
In books centered on this event—like The Great Plague by Ann Turnbull or similar titles—the story often follows a young protagonist, such as a servant, apprentice, or child, who witnesses the rapid changes in society as the disease spreads. These stories show how the rich fled the city, families were torn apart, and daily life was consumed by fear and superstition. People were locked in their homes, red crosses marked infected houses, and carts rolled down the streets collecting the dead.
The narrative combines emotional depth with historical detail, highlighting:
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How people lived during the 1600s
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The symptoms and misunderstanding of the disease
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Acts of courage, kindness, and survival in the face of widespread death
Themes:
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Human resilience
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The power of community and compassion
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Science vs superstition
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Social inequality during times of crisis
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