How did the Black Death affect the perception of authority and power?

How did the Black Death affect the perception of authority and power?

The Black Death had a significant impact on the perception of authority and power. As the disease spread rapidly and caused widespread death and devastation, people began to question the effectiveness and legitimacy of those in positions of authority. The inability of religious leaders, such as priests and bishops, to prevent or cure the disease led to a decline in faith and trust in the Church. Additionally, the high mortality rate among the nobility and ruling classes created a power vacuum, leading to social and political unrest. This resulted in a shift in power dynamics, as the surviving population demanded better governance and representation. Overall, the Black Death challenged the traditional authority structures and paved the way for social and political changes in the aftermath of the pandemic.