<P> The mask had glass openings in the eyes and a curved beak shaped like that of a bird . Straps held the beak in front of the doctor 's nose . The mask had two small nose holes and was a type of respirator which contained aromatic items . The beak could hold dried flowers ( including roses and carnations ) , herbs ( including mint ) , spices , camphor , or a vinegar sponge . The purpose of the mask was to keep away bad smells , which were thought to be the principal cause of the disease in the miasma theory of infection , before it was disproved by germ theory . Doctors believed the herbs would counter the `` evil '' smells of the plague and prevent them from becoming infected . </P>
<P> The mask had glass openings in the eyes and a curved beak shaped like that of a bird . Straps held the beak in front of the doctor 's nose . The mask had two small nose holes and was a type of respirator which contained aromatic items . The beak could hold dried flowers ( including roses and carnations ) , herbs ( including mint ) , spices , camphor , or a vinegar sponge . The purpose of the mask was to keep away bad smells , which were thought to be the principal cause of the disease in the miasma theory of infection , before it was disproved by germ theory . Doctors believed the herbs would counter the `` evil '' smells of the plague and prevent them from becoming infected . </P>
why does the plague doctor have a long nose
why does the plague doctor have a long nose
was a type of respirator which contained aromatic items
was a type of respirator which contained aromatic items