Why were they doom paintings in churches?

Doom paintings, or "Danse Macabre," were created in churches during the medieval period to remind congregants of the inevitability of death and the importance of living a righteous life. These vivid depictions often illustrated the Last Judgment, showcasing the consequences of sin and the promise of salvation. By visualizing the transient nature of life and the omnipresence of death, these artworks aimed to encourage moral behavior and spiritual reflection among the faithful.