Was punishment always fair? - Teacher's notes

The unit in question delves into the historical perspectives of 'crime and punishment', examining its evolution and the fairness of punishments administered in the past. Teachers are provided with resources, including a video link, to facilitate a deeper understanding among pupils of the severity and often barbaric nature of historical punishments. The video serves as a catalyst for classroom discussion, prompting students to consider the lack of fairness in historical justice systems. These systems frequently denied the accused the chance to defend themselves, and punishments were not always proportionate to the crimes committed.

Reflecting on the fairness of historical punishment, it becomes evident that justice systems have not always been equitable. In many cases, punishment was meted out in a manner that was overly harsh or even cruel, with little consideration for the rights of the individual. The absence of a fair trial or the opportunity for the accused to present a defence meant that punishment could be arbitrary and not necessarily reflective of the severity of the alleged crime. This discussion provides an opportunity to explore the concept of fairness in the context of historical legal practices and encourages pupils to think critically about the principles of justice and how they have evolved over time.