The Black Death, which swept through Europe in the 14th century, had profound effects on social structures. The massive death toll—up to one-third of Europe's population—led to labor shortages, significantly diminishing the feudal system's power dynamics. With fewer workers available, peasants gained leverage to negotiate better wages and living conditions, resulting in increased social mobility. The subsequent rise in demand for labor shifted societal views towards the lower classes, altering perceptions of their worth. Additionally, the experience of mortality prompted introspection in religious beliefs, contributing to shifts towards humanism and skepticism regarding established institutions like the Church.