Explore the history of the European plague doctor, and find out where their iconic outfit of a beaked mask and robe came from.

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The year is 1656. Your body is wracked by violent chills. Your head pounds and you're too weak to sit up. In your feverish state, you see a strange-looking man wearing a beak-like mask, his body covered from head to toe. Without seeing his face, you know: you have the plague. So, where did these iconic outfits come from? Stephanie Honchell Smith explores the history of plague doctors.

Directed by Anton Bogaty.

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View full lesson: https://ed.ted.com/lessons/why....-plague-doctors-wore
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Animator's website: https://www.instagram.com/anton_bogaty
Music: https://yessian.com
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