The Black Death changed the course of medieval European history, but how much of what we think we know about the devastating pandemic is actually true?
This month, the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology will explore the disease and its far-reaching effects at a special evening of storytelling and discovery with Dr Beth Spacey, a Lecturer in Medieval History at the University of Queensland.
Events and Public Programs Manager Joel Stephens said the Abbey Museum’s atmospheric setting would provide a fitting backdrop for exploring the history of the Black Death.
“Following on from her recent lecture on the crusades at the Abbey History Festival in September, we are delighted to welcome Beth back to the Abbey Museum for the final Abbey After Dark event for 2026, this time with a darker plot,” Joel said.
Beth said her interest in the Black Death developed during her university studies when a lecturer asked students to imagine the scale of the catastrophe.
“What would happen, she asked, if 40 to 60% of the people in this lecture hall succumbed to a deadly disease within a few weeks or months?” Beth said.
The question helped her appreciate the scale of the disaster and sparked a deeper interest in its effects on society, from the economy and religious beliefs to artistic expression.
Uncover the Myths and Realities of the Black Death
The Abbey After Dark talk will challenge some of the myths surrounding the pandemic.
“Some of the most famous imagery associated with the Black Death, the beaked plague doctor, for example, simply didn’t exist in the medieval period,” Beth said.
“I also think that people will be surprised to hear about how sophisticated medieval ideas about plague could be, as they brought together ideas about religion, medicine and astronomy to prevent and treat the disease.”
Visitors will learn about the bacteria responsible for the plague, how it spread through Europe in the 14th century and how people at the time understood and responded to it.
The evening will also give visitors the chance to wander through the museum’s galleries at twilight and view Reserve Collection artefacts in an exclusive temporary display. Charcuterie, cheese and wine will be served, with a gift bag for guests to take home.
Tickets are $45 per person plus a booking fee. Learn more or get your tickets here.
Abbey After Dark: The Black Death with Dr Beth Spacey
- Friday, 13 November, 6.30pm-8.30pm
- Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology
- 31 The Abbey Place, Caboolture
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