
Branking, Public Humiliation, 16th

by Science Source
Title
Branking, Public Humiliation, 16th
Artist
Science Source
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
A scold's bridle was an instrument of punishment, as a form of torture and public humiliation. The device was an iron muzzle in an iron framework that enclosed the head. A bridle-bit, about 2 inches long and 1 inch broad, projected into the mouth and pressed down on top of the tongue. Branking was designed as a mirror punishment for shrews or scolds; women of the lower classes whose speech was deemed riotous or troublesome - often women suspected of witchcraft - by preventing such "gossips or scolds" from speaking. Displaying the branks in public was intended to remind the populace of the consequences of any rash action or slander.
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September 7th, 2020
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