What Was the Dancing Plague of 1518?
In July 1518, the city of Strasbourg, part of the Holy Roman Empire, was struck by the strange and terrifying Dancing Plague.
Five hundred years ago, in July 1518, the city of Strasbourg, part of the Holy Roman Empire, was struck by a bizarre and terrifying event known as the Dancing Plague.
It all started when a woman named Frau Troffea suddenly began dancing in the streets, unable to stop. However, within days, more and more citizens joined her—completely out of control, dancing for hours, even as exhaustion and pain set in. Over 30 people were trapped in this trance-like state. As the weeks passed, the numbers kept growing. Many danced until they collapsed from exhaustion, while others died
Authorities were baffled. Some thought music might help, so musicians were hired—but instead of stopping, the dancers only became more frenzied. Religious leaders believed it was divine punishment, while others suspected possession by spirits. Despite various remedies, the dancing continued for over a month before it finally faded away.
The cause of the Dancing Plague remains unknown. What do you think caused it? Let us know in the comments!
