Curious Punishments of Bygone Days

The book is a collection of essays that explores the history of crime and punishment in Europe and the United States from medieval times through the 18th century. The book is organized thematically with chapters dedicated to specific types of punishments such as the stocks the pillory and the ducking stool. Earle describes the origins of these punishments how they were used and the social and cultural contexts in which they were employed. The book also explores the attitudes towards crime and punishment in different historical periods. Earle argues that in the past punishment was seen as a public spectacle designed to shame and humiliate the offender rather than as a means of rehabilitation. She also discusses the role of religion in shaping attitudes towards punishment as well as the influence of changing social and economic conditions.