Pillory

By Crusader1307

Similar in theory and practice to The Stocks, The Pillory (or The ''Punishment Circus'', as it was also known as) - consisted of wooden hinged boards, constructed to restrain the head, hands or feet of an accused offender. Awaiting trial (or as the primary punishment in some cases), they were constructed in a Marketplace or other public venue. Often build on platforms or on building overhands, offenders would have wooded placards or signs placed on or next to them telling of their crime. Often crowds were encouraged to throw rocks, rotting food or even fecal matter at the restrained Victim. As they became permanent fixtures, whipping posts, branding and humiliation masks were added. Some Pillories were so elaborate that they became known as "Punishment Circuses". Often, several "shows" per week were "performed".