By: Lauren Head2nd Period

Medieval Punishments

Trials

• For a conviction– Two eye-witnesses– A confession

• Beginning with religious encouragement• Torture last resort• All were subject to torture, making

individuals equal

Oaths

• Person swore testimony• Other witnesses reinforced persons

reputation.• Elders determine guilt and punishment

Ordeals

• Based on belief that God would protect the innocent.

• Priest blessed the proceedings• Different forms

– Water submerging– Boiling water/hot iron– Combat

Inquisition Procedures• Grace period• Females over 12, males over 14• Hold accused with no explanation• Lost all rights• Lied about leniency for confessions• Torture then ensued• This practice spread throughout Europe

Strappado

• Most popular form of torture.• Pulley system over beam.• Weights occasionally

attached.

Other Popular Forms

• Sleep deprivation• Fire torture

– Grease– Soles of the feet

• Stretched• Water torture• Thumb/leg screws

Witchcraft• Unmarried women• Frequently mistaken• “Pact with the Devil”• Once accused, unlikely to be dismissed

Laziness

• NOT tolerated• Noncitizen beggars removed• Deemed physically able• European prisons

Rebels and Traitors

• Torture until body breaks to obtain confession

• William Wallace– Organs cut from body– Displayed to town

• Wealthy or royalty treated well– Hunting– Feasting

The End