The Secrets Behind the Plague Doctor’s Terrifying Costume

The plague doctor is arguably one of the most enigmatic figures to have emerged from the Middle Ages. These were European physicians who specialised in treating victims of the plague, the best known of which being the Black Death. Whilst plague doctors have been plying their trade since the Middle Ages, it was only after this period, during the 17 ^th century, that they acquired their trademark costume. The outfit of the plague doctor is the most iconic (though a little anachronistic) symbol associated today with the Black Death, and the plague in general.

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H/t reader kevin a.