Millie Castleton 16th century, 17th century, Culture, Culture and belief, Law and Order, Social issues

A Brief look at Iceland’s male witch trials. (video)

Iceland's witchtrials took a unique turn from many of the other European trials. But why is this? Why where the overwhelming majority of those convicted men? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coKXYwTLXHo&t=1s

Millie Castleton 14th century, 15th Century, Law and Order, Medicine, Middle ages, Social issues

The life of an Executioner.

It’s wildly accepted that crime and punishment in history has been brutal. A person could find themselves facing terrible punishments for what we now consider petty crimes. But behind the horror of execution where those tasked with delivering it. The life of an executioner was nothing glamorous or forbiddingly dark. Forget the black hooded man … Continue reading The life of an Executioner.

Millie Castleton 14th century, Historic Figures, Law and Order, Middle ages

The Folville Gang: England’s medieval mafia

NEW MORE DETAILED AUDIO ESSAY: In 1310 Sir John Folville dies, a respected part of the gentry and a commissioner knight of the shire. As per custom his wealth and land are given to the eldest of his sons, John. Leaving the remaining six to find their own paths. This was nothing unusual. The younger … Continue reading The Folville Gang: England’s medieval mafia

Millie Castleton Culture and belief, Law and Order, Middle ages

Johannes Junius: The mayor burned for Witchcraft.

In July 1628, broken and tired fifty-five-year-old man finally confesses to a crime he was accused of months before. He has finally given in to the mental and physical torcher of his captors, recognising there is no way to prove innocence or escape. This man is no outcast or misfit that the community is wary … Continue reading Johannes Junius: The mayor burned for Witchcraft.