Black Death Epidemic and Society in the Mamluks (749/1348-49) / Esra Atmaca

Abstract

This article reviews The Black Death: Epidemic and Society in the Mamluk Period (749/1348–49), authored by Esra Atmaca. The book offers a comprehensive, multidimensional analysis of the Black Death’s impact on the social, cultural, intellectual, and administrative structures of the Mamluk realm during the 14th century. Structured in four main chapters, the study draws upon historical sources to examine a wide range of topics, including the spread of the epidemic across Mamluk territories, it’s devastating effects on daily life, the disruption of scholarly activities, and administrative breakdowns. By utilizing primary sources, the author effectively highlights the plague’s influence on religious life, economic structures and demographic shifts, thereby enhancing the book’s academic value. Importantly, it challenges Eurocentric narratives by focusing on the plague’s effects outside Europe, offering a significant contribution to the field of Islamic history. This review aims to summarize the scope and scholarly significance of the book and emphasize its relevance for researchers in history and the history of medicine. Ultimately, The Black Death: Epidemic and Society in the Mamluk Period (749/1348-49) stands out as a valuable reference for scholars interested in history, Islamic civilization and medical historiography. Its reliance on primary sources, clear explanatory footnotes and accessible language make it both academically rigorous and reader-friendly. The book provides meaningful insights not only into historical pandemics but also into understanding contemporary crises through a historical lens.