Could the Great Fire have been one of the best things that happened to London? - Teacher notes

The Great Fire of London, a historical event familiar to many pupils, serves as a thought-provoking subject in this educational unit. The aim is to delve into the event's details, distinguishing between the actual facts and the myths that have emerged over time. One such myth suggests that the fire, which ravaged the city in 1666, played a significant role in ending the Great Plague by eliminating the rats that were believed to be carriers of the disease. This unit encourages pupils to investigate this claim and draw parallels between the Great Plague and the more recent COVID-19 pandemic, fostering a deeper understanding of how societies respond to public health crises.

Another key aspect of the unit is the study of Sir Christopher Wren's contributions to the reconstruction of London post-fire. Pupils are directed to research the transformative impact that the rebuilding efforts had on the architectural and urban landscape of the city. Through this exploration, they will gain insight into how the Great Fire may have inadvertently catalysed positive change, shaping London into the metropolis we recognise today. The unit poses a thought-provoking question: could the Great Fire have been one of the best things to happen to London? This inquiry sets the stage for a rich discussion on the long-term effects of disasters and the resilience of cities in the face of adversity.