Ep 154: Off With Their Heads! - Medieval Executioners

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Step back in time with our latest podcast episode as we delve into the chilling world of medieval executioners. These figures, often shunned by society, played a crucial role in the justice systems of the past. But what was life really like for those who carried out society's most dreaded duty?

Executioners were often chosen from the ranks of criminals or were part of a family lineage, handed down from generation to generation. Despite the grim nature of their work, executioners were not paid lavishly. Instead, they received modest compensation, such as free lodging, exemption from taxes, and a peculiar privilege known as 'havage'—entitling them to free food and drink.

The methods of execution varied significantly, often determined by the crime committed. From beheadings with a three-stroke rule to ensure a swift death, to the gruesome practice of being broken at the wheel, the creativity of medieval punishment was both horrifying and fascinating. Executioners were expected to perform these tasks with precision, as a botched execution could lead to their own demise at the hands of an angry mob.

Socially, executioners were outcasts, often associating with the undesirables of society. Despite this, they were sometimes sought after for medical advice, given their knowledge of the human body. This dual role as both healer and executioner paints a complex picture of their place in medieval society.

Our episode also highlights the story of Franz Schmidt, a German executioner who meticulously documented his career, providing historians with invaluable insights into the life and duties of an executioner. His records of 361 executions reveal the procedural formalities and societal attitudes towards capital punishment during his time.

Join us as we explore these dark corners of history, shedding light on the lives of those who wielded the executioner's sword. It's a journey into a world where justice was as swift as it was brutal, and where the executioner was both a necessary evil and a societal pariah. Listen to the full episode to uncover more about this fascinating and macabre aspect of our past.