Question

How did the social structures and hierarchies that defined much of western medieval Europe shift in the aftermath of the Black Death?

a) They remained unchanged due to rigid traditions.
b) Social mobility increased due to labor shortages.
c) Hierarchies became more rigid, limiting social mobility.
d) The elite consolidated power, reducing disparities.

Answer 1

The social structures and hierarchies in medieval Europe underwent significant changes following the Black Death. Social mobility increased due to labor shortages, which allowed peasants and serfs to negotiate better working conditions and seek new economic opportunities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Following the Black Death, the social structures and hierarchies in western medieval Europe underwent significant changes.The correct option is b) Social mobility increased due to labor shortages.The Black Death, or the bubonic plague, caused a severe labor shortage as a significant portion of the population perished. This led to a scarcity of workers, which, in turn, increased the demand for labor. As a result, the surviving peasants and serfs gained more bargaining power, enabling them to negotiate better working conditions and higher wages. Some peasants even migrated from the countryside to cities, where labor demand was higher, seeking employment and new economic opportunities. This shift in labor dynamics led to an increase in social mobility as individuals had more chances to improve their social and economic status.