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	The black plague: Italian society By: Joshua E.


	During the 14th century Italy was undergoing a great change from a dark, dreary lifestyle to a very lively and vibrant lifestyle. During this period Italy was transforming from a plague ridden society into a very artistic society.


	Transition Period During the transition period Italy was divided into large city-states that were ruled by the richest family, who were usually merchants and traders. These states were somewhat anarchic and the rulers did not always do the best job ruling. Due to this the states themselves did not advance very much but the people in the states became very educated and artistic.


	Sex and Gender Typically women in the 14th century lead a lifestyle that consisted mainly of household duties and raising the children. Once schools were introduced women had more freedom and could take up jobs outside of the home. Men pretty much brought home the bacon. The men in the 14th century were typically farmers, craftsmen, merchants or traders. The men were the center and the head of the family.


	Lifestyles and Living Situations The majority of the people's lifestyles were very poor. The peasants and townspeople had very few pieces of furniture in their houses. Rarely were chairs and tables present. Beds were the main pieces of furniture in the house. Very few houses had any value. A handful of homes had tapestries or paintings on the walls. Bathing was an issue in the 14th century. There were public baths, but people who visited them often were labeled as whores. Portable baths were present in the home but the quality of the water was still poor.


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