Archive FM

AMDG: A Jesuit Podcast

What the Bubonic Plague Can Teach Us Today with Historian Christopher Bellitto

As we face today's pandemic, what we can learn from the 14th Century's Bubonic Plague? Plenty, according to Kean University medieval historian Chris Bellitto. Parallels abound, from the scapegoating of certain communities in both eras to the impact of wealth inequality on who can "socially distance." On the more hopeful side, reflecting on the innumerable faith leaders who gave their lives ministering to the sick in the Middle Ages, Bellitto talks about the huge opportunities religious communities have today to respond to the crisis with compassion and creativity. Chris is a dynamic, funny, accessible teacher who makes history come alive. You'll be fascinated by his perspective. Chris' most recent book is "Ageless Wisdom: Lifetime Lessons from the Bible": http://www.paulistpress.com/Products/4990-2/ageless-wisdom.aspx Learn more about Chris here: https://sites.google.com/a/kean.edu/christopher-m-bellitto-ph-d/
Broadcast on:
01 Apr 2020

As we face today's pandemic, what we can learn from the 14th Century's Bubonic Plague? Plenty, according to Kean University medieval historian Chris Bellitto. Parallels abound, from the scapegoating of certain communities in both eras to the impact of wealth inequality on who can "socially distance." On the more hopeful side, reflecting on the innumerable faith leaders who gave their lives ministering to the sick in the Middle Ages, Bellitto talks about the huge opportunities religious communities have today to respond to the crisis with compassion and creativity. Chris is a dynamic, funny, accessible teacher who makes history come alive. You'll be fascinated by his perspective. Chris' most recent book is "Ageless Wisdom: Lifetime Lessons from the Bible": http://www.paulistpress.com/Products/4990-2/ageless-wisdom.aspx Learn more about Chris here: https://sites.google.com/a/kean.edu/christopher-m-bellitto-ph-d/