From Plague to Pages: The Graphic Novel Inspired by Malta’s 16th-Century Epidemic

In the heart of Valletta, at the National Library, a centuries-old manuscript lies hidden among its vast collection. This isn’t just any manuscript, though. It’s a chilling account of the Great Plague of 1592-1593, a devastating epidemic that swept through Malta, killing thousands. Today, this historical record has inspired a gripping graphic novel, bringing Malta’s dark past to life in a unique and engaging way.

Malta’s Forgotten Plague

The Great Plague of 1592-1593 was one of the most catastrophic events in Malta’s history. Brought to the island by ships from Sicily, the disease ravaged through the population, with some estimates suggesting it killed up to a third of the Maltese people. The epidemic was so severe that it led to the construction of the Fort St. Elmo in Valletta, a fortification designed to protect the island from future invasions and plagues.

For centuries, the plague was largely forgotten, overshadowed by other historical events. But in recent years, historians and artists have begun to shine a light on this dark period, exploring its impact on Malta and its people. One such artist is Matthew Attard, a Maltese comic book artist and writer who was inspired to create a graphic novel based on the plague.

From History to Comics

Attard first encountered the plague while researching Malta’s history. “I was fascinated by the scale of the epidemic and how it shaped our island’s development,” he says. “I wanted to bring this story to life, to make it accessible to a wider audience, especially young people.”

Attard spent years researching the plague, poring over historical documents and visiting sites like the Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu, where some of the plague’s victims were treated. He combined this research with his own creative interpretation to craft a compelling narrative, set against the backdrop of 16th-century Malta.

Plague: A Graphic Novel

Attard’s graphic novel, simply titled “Plague”, follows a young Maltese woman named Maria as she navigates the horrors of the epidemic. The story is a gripping blend of historical accuracy and fictional drama, filled with vivid depictions of life during the plague. From the crowded streets of medieval Birgu to the grim interiors of the island’s hospitals, Attard’s illustrations bring the past to life in a way that no history book could.

But “Plague” isn’t just a historical retelling. It’s also a story about resilience, courage, and the human spirit. Through Maria’s eyes, we see how the Maltese people came together in the face of adversity, helping each other survive the worst of times.

“I wanted to show that even in the darkest moments, there’s always hope,” Attard says. “The Maltese people have always been resilient, and that’s something worth celebrating.”

Attard’s graphic novel isn’t just a tribute to Malta’s past. It’s also a testament to the power of art to connect us with our history, to make it personal and relatable. It’s a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, there’s always a story to tell, a lesson to learn.

You can purchase “Plague” at local bookstores and online platforms. For more information about the graphic novel and Attard’s other works, visit his official website.