![]() Continued pressure could cause the limbs to be torn right off. It came in many forms, but here's the basic idea: The victim was tied down while some mechanical device, usually a crank or turning wheel, tightened the ropes, stretching the victim's body until the joints were dislocated. The rack was used throughout Europe for centuries. Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images This took place in 1558 during the reign of the Catholic Queen Mary of England. Ĭuthbert Simpson was tortured on the rack in the Tower of London for his Protestant beliefs before being burned at the stake. By some reports, Phalaris himself became an eventual victim of the bull when his subjects grew tired of his mistreatment. ![]() Expecting a handsome reward for his creativity, Perillus instead became the first person placed inside the Brazen Bull. Legend has it that this device was invented by a Greek named Perillus (Perilaus in some sources) for a tyrant named Phalaris of Agrigentum. This effect created additional amusement for the audience, and served the added benefit of distancing them from the brutality of the torture, since they couldn't directly see the victim. ![]() The movements and sounds, muted by the bull's mass, made the apparatus appear alive, the sounds inside like those of a real bull. As the victim succumbed to the searing heat inside, he would thrash about and scream in agony. Victims were placed inside, usually with their tongues cut out first. The Brazen Bull was a hollow brass statue crafted to resemble a real bull. Heritage Art/Heritage Images via Getty Images ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |