Dancing Plague 1518

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The dancing plague of 1518 was one of many odd outbreaks of dancing in the 1300s-1600s. It was, undeniably, the most well known occurrence of this ‘plague,’ and has been an area of interest for scientists for many years. At the time of the event, doctors reasoned that demonic possession and overheated blood were the most likely causes, but more recent analyses offer explanations such as fungal disease or psychogenic disorder (BPS). The “plague” began with a woman, Frau (Mrs.) Troffea, in July 1518. With no explanation, she simply stepped into the street and began to dance, not stopping until her body was physically unable to dance anymore. Soon, more people began to join in her frenzied dance, and before it was smothered a near 400 individuals
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