Eyam Interesting Essay Topic Ideas

Eyam is a small village located in the North of England, in the county of Derbyshire It is perhaps best known for its part in the ‘Plague of 1665-66’, a time of great hardship and sorrow for the people of Eyam. In 1665 the bubonic plague, a highly contagious and often fatal disease, was brought to Eyam in a cloth parcel from London. At that time, very little was known about the disease or how to treat it, and the villagers were left with a terrible dilemma. They could either quarantine themselves in the village, and risk further spread of the plague, or they could flee and risk further spread of the disease by travelling to other towns. The villagers chose to stay in Eyam and lockdown themselves in an effort to protect their neighbours and the surrounding communities. This self-imposed quarantine lasted for 14 months, and during this time the deaths of many villagers, including the local rector William Mompesson, were recorded. Fortunately the outbreak eventually subsided and Eyam was eventually able to re-open, although the village had suffered greatly. Eyam continues to remember those difficult months and its heroic villagers, and visitors to Eyam are often moved by its fascinating and tragic history. Here we look at five interesting essay topics related to Eyam. 1. Examining the Impact of the Plague on Eyam: This essay could look at the far-reaching effects of the plague on the people of Eyam. From the big-picture economic impacts, to the emotional strain of burying loved ones and the health impacts of the plague itself, this essay could explore the full human cost of the plague on the village of Eyam. 2. Investigating the Courage of the Eyam Villagers: This essay could explore the bravery and fortitude of the villagers of Eyam during their time of self-imposed quarantine. It could look at their resilience in the face of adversity, their strong sense of community and their determination to protect their neighbours. 3. Exploring William Mompesson and His Role in the Plague of 1665-66: This essay could look at the inspiring life of the priest William Mompesson, who courageously stayed with the villagers during the long quarantine and performed the funerals of many of the plague victims. It could look at his deep faith and passion for bringing aid to the struggling village. 4. Discussing the Legacy of the Plague of 1665-66: This essay could explore how Eyam has remembered the significant events of the plague and how they remember the courage of the villagers and their determination to protect their neighbours. It could look at any commemorative activities or memorials that commemorate the courage of the villagers. 5. Analysing the Historical and Social Significance of the Plague of 1665-66: This essay could explore how the events of the plague in Eyam have been documented and memorialised over the course of the centuries. It could also look at what impact the story of Eyam has had on society as a whole, and how it can help people reflect on and appreciate their own community spirit.