What evidence tell us that some punishments were very cruel? - Teacher's Notes

Historical evidence suggests that punishments in the past were often extremely cruel, a fact that becomes apparent when examining the disciplinary instruments and methods used throughout history. Teachers are urged to guide pupils in exploring various punishment devices that were commonplace in bygone eras, which will help them understand the evolution of our justice system. By discussing the nature of public executions, such as hangings, and the fact that they were once popular public spectacles, students can grasp the severity and brutality of past punishments. Crowds would gather to witness the suffering of those being punished, an act that is largely unfathomable in most modern societies.

Students are encouraged to conduct research into historical methods of punishment and to compare these with contemporary practices. This exploration will likely reveal stark contrasts, highlighting the progress in human rights and the treatment of offenders. After completing their research, pupils are expected to summarise their perspectives on how punishment has changed over time. Such a summary should reflect an understanding of the harsh and often inhumane nature of historical punishments, providing evidence that these were indeed very cruel compared to modern standards of justice and penal reform.