Classical Antiquity
Lanista
An extinct profession from Classical Antiquity that became obsolete due to technological advancement and societal change.
Media Gallery
Related Exhibits
Plague Doctor
The role of the Plague Doctor emerged during the devastating outbreaks of the bubonic plague in the 14th to 17th centuries, particularly during the Black Death. These physicians were tasked with treating the afflicted and managing the spread of the disease, which claimed millions of lives across Europe. Plague Doctors were often hired by towns and cities to care for the sick, and their distinctive attire became a symbol of the era's struggle against disease. They wore long cloaks, gloves, boots, and a beaked mask filled with aromatic substances, believed to purify the air and protect them from miasma, or 'bad air,' thought to be the cause of the plague. Their work was fraught with danger, as they often encountered patients who were gravely ill or already deceased, and they had limited medical knowledge and tools at their disposal. Despite their efforts, many Plague Doctors themselves succumbed to the very diseases they sought to combat, highlighting the perilous nature of their profession.
Coal Stoker
The coal stoker was a vital role during the Industrial Revolution, responsible for feeding coal into steam boilers that powered locomotives, ships, and factories. These workers were the unsung heroes of the industrial age, ensuring that the engines of progress ran smoothly. The job required physical strength and endurance, as stokers often worked in hot, cramped, and dark conditions, shoveling coal into the fireboxes of boilers to maintain the necessary temperature for steam production. The stoker's work was crucial for the operation of steam engines, which were the backbone of industrial transportation and manufacturing during this period. The job was labor-intensive and often dangerous, with workers exposed to high temperatures, coal dust, and the risk of burns or injuries from heavy equipment. Stokers were typically employed in coal-fired power plants, on ships, and in factories, where they played a key role in the efficiency of steam-powered machinery. As the Industrial Revolution progressed, the demand for coal stokers grew, but so did the mechanization of the industry, leading to significant changes in the workforce.
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