Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Essay on Medieval Torture - 2184 Words

Torture (Latin torquere, â€Å"to twist†), in law, infliction of severe bodily pain either as punishment, or to compel a person to confess to a crime, or to give evidence in a judicial proceeding. Among primitive peoples, torture has been used as a means of ordeal and to punish captured enemies. Examination by torture, often called the â€Å"question,† has been used in many countries as a judicial method. It involves using instruments to extort evidence from unwilling witnesses. In ancient Athens, slaves were always examined by torture, and for this reason their evidence was apparently considered more valuable than that of freemen. A free Athenian could not be examined by this method, but torture may have been used occasionally in executing†¦show more content†¦It was last used in England in 1640 to compel a confession of treason. By the middle of the 18th century legal torture was abolished in France, Prussia, Saxony (Sachsen), Austria, and Switzerland. Under a papal bull issued in 1816 the use of torture was banned in Roman Catholic countries. Torture in Europe through the Ages The history of torture in Europe may seem at first to be a steady progression of barbarous tactics, leading from one social purge to the next, but this is not completely the case. Torture has been used in a progression from primitive methods to the present more modern styles. It has also developed extensively, both in severity and variety of methods used. But in the end, torture has gone full circle; modern forms of torture are more like those methods used by savages than anything in between. Overall, the severity of torture has fluctuated, growing and receding with the passing of each new time period, but eventually reverting to its original state. There are several varieties of tortures in general. Until the twentieth century, most forms of torture that were recognized as such were purely physical in nature. The breaking of bones, manipulation or mutilation of a persons body, and the application of flames or other implements of punishment were the main forms of recognized torture. The Wheel was aShow MoreRelatedEssay on The Punishments of the Medieval era1244 Words   |  5 PagesThe Punishments of the Medieval Era When Shakespeare was born in 1564, Queen Elizabeth had taken power a mere 6 years prior, and her justice system was very different from ours. In this paper, I hope to explore some of the ways punishments were different, such as how many crimes had individual punishments, often times depending on how severe the crime was. I will also go in-depth to one of the most infamous cases of the medieval period. Imprisonment was very rare. If you were in jailRead MoreArgumentative Essay On Torture1457 Words   |  6 PagesSamantha Howe YCCC English 101 10/30/17 Essay #2 Second Draft Once Upon a Torture When one thinks of torture, what is imagined? Perhaps they think of those wooden machines in the museums that they cannot even comprehend the use for, or the iron maiden, a cinematic favorite. Or perhaps they don’t think of anything specific like that, for it isn’t a question often presented. Torture, regardless, is a gruesome term with gruesome connotations. In our progressive society of modern technology, it isRead MoreTorture As An Effective Way For A True Information1600 Words   |  7 Pagespreviously mentioned, torture has traditionally been cited as a way to successfully extract information and strategic intelligence and this definition has constantly been used by governments to justify its use. However as outlined by Heather Whipps, â€Å"from the dingy dungeons of the Dark Ages to todays use torture used against terrorists, the use of torture as an interrogation tactic has evolved little and possibly yielded even less, in terms of intelligence.† (Whipps , 2007) During the Medieval period of historyRead MoreTorture Has Been Practiced Throughout History1685 Words   |  7 PagesTorture has been practiced throughout history. â€Å"Torture is any act that intentionally inflicts severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, when executed to serve a stated purpose other than punishment, such as gathering intelligence information or intimidating government dissenters†(â€Å"Torture†). Many cultures throughout history, such as the Romans, Jews, Egyptians, and many more have used torture as part of their justice and law system. One of the Roman’s torturing methods was crucifixionRead MoreEssay about Torture Against Human Rights1310 Words   |  6 PagesTorture Against Human Rights Iain Banks once stated on the topic of torture, â€Å"torture is such a slippery slope; as soon you allow a society or any legal system to do that, almost instantly you get a situation where people are being tortured for very trivial reasons† (goodreads). When used in the appropriate way, torture can be very effective; however, it is often taken advantage of and is never acceptable. It has shown in the past that once a country has been accused of using torture, all credibilityRead MoreThe Truth about Torture and Enhanced Interrogations1577 Words   |  7 PagesThe Truth about Torture and Enhanced Interrogations Beaten, broken, burned, bruised, tortured. 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As a societyRead MoreTorture Is Not Necessary?843 Words   |  4 PagesTorture can be defined as, the action of purposely inflicting physical or psychological pain on another individual in order to get information out of them. Although many may argue that torture isn’t necessary, it is necessary because by torturing we are able to save thousands of innocent lives. Torture has been around since ancient times; however, during ancient times it was much more violent than it is today. During ancient times they had torturing methods such as crucifixion, which was theRead MoreHistorical Methods of Torture and Execution Essay907 Words   |  4 PagesHistorical Methods of Torture and Execution Europe is the place to visit if this is what youre into. Many cities and towns have medieval torture museums. We liked one that we visited at Mont St. Michel in France. For those of you who cant afford to travel, check out the movie version of Edgar Allen Poes The Pit and the Pendulum starring Lance Henrickson. Dont know how historically accurate it is, but its great atmospherically. Beheading byRead MoreThe Formicarius ( Ant Hill ) Of Johannes Nider1230 Words   |  5 Pages(Levack, 2013) Nider also received testimony from a man from the Bernese territory who went by the name of Peter, a Benedictine monk, and an inquisitor from the convent at Lyons. Nider states that the judge from Bern told him stories about the torture of alleged witches and the confessions that some of them made at their trials, as well as details from various trials that presided over. Peter told Nider stories of when he not only drove suspected witches out of Bernese, but also of when he burned

Backpacking Essay Example For Students

Backpacking Essay Have you ever been fed up with the stress and noise of city life? Do you likespending time outdoors? You are not alone. Every year thousands of people headto the nearby Appalachian trail to get away and spend some quality timeoutdoors. Backpacking is, at least, an interesting way to spend time outdoors. By keeping all their gear in a backpack, campers can travel distances with ease. The following will identify and explain the techniques and equipment used forbackpacking on the Appalachian Trail. The Appalachian Trail, or A.T. as it isknown to backpackers, is a foot trail that runs from Springer Mt., Georgia toMount Katahdin in Maine. (Curran, 7) Running through the Appalachian Mountains,the trail allows packers to encounter wooded landscape with a variety ofterrain, temperatures, and weather conditions. In practice, the Trail isusually a simple footpath, purposeful in direction and concept, favoring theheights of land and loaded for minimum reliance on construction for protectingthe resource. The body of the trail is provided by the lands it traverses, andits soul is the living stewardship of the volunteers and workers of theAppalachian Trail community. (definition of the Appalachian Trail, fromAppalachian Trail Management Principals.)(Curran, 7)Because the trail is over2,100 miles long, it becomes very difficult for a packer to hike the entiretrail. Each year a bout 5,000 people attempt to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. Of these 5,000 it is estimated that less than 300 accomplish their goal. (Curran, 8) Many other packers enjoy weekend or short trips and hike the trailin pieces. Either way, backpacking is extremely challenging and enjoyable. Hiking on the Appalachian Trail requires its own kind of equipment, unique tobackpacking. Campers must have a sturdy reliable backpack to carry theirequipment. (Drury 37) Backpacks are generally supported by a combination ofstraps around the shoulders and hips. Packs usually come in two styles: externalframe and internal frame. (Gorman,1) An external frame pack is an excellentchoice in a backpack for many reasons. An external pack is easy to load andorganize because of the large panel that opens for easy access. (Gorman, 1)External packs often have large pockets or compartments so that the backpackercan quickly find a specific piece of equipment. (Howe 94-95) Another quality ofthe external frame packs is that air circulates between the campers back andthe packbag, keeping them cool in the hot summer months. (Golman,2) Perhaps bestof all, they dont drag hikers down when carrying a heavy load. Because externalframe packs have a higher center of gravity, they allow hiking in a more upri ghtstance. (Gorman, 2) For a pack that typically costs less than half an equivalentinternal, these features are noteworthy. Internal frames are built with lighterloads in mind. They are supported by stiff aluminum poles inside the packbag. (Gorman 2) All of the campers gear is stored inside the pack as well becausethere are no outer poles to strap equipment to. Internal frame packs carry theweight lower than externals, and closer to the back. The result is a pack thathas much better balance, ideal for off-trail hikers, but not too important for awell groomed trail like the A.T. (Drury 41) Select an internal orexternal frame pack based upon the outdoor activities you normally do andconsider that external frame packs are generally less expensive. (Drury43) Another essential piece of equipment for the backpacker is shelter. (Drury,56) Although some lightweight enthusiasts prefer a simple rain-fly or tarp, bugscan often be a problem. A tent is usually a good solution. There are many typesof tents to choose from. One reliable type of tent is the seventies styleA-Frame. (Drury, 57) The A-Frame is a triangle shaped tent thatworks well at keeping the weather out. (Wallace 41) The dome tent is becomingmore popular because it h as more space with less weight. Dome tents usefiberglass poles for support so they are strong, reliable and light. Dome tentskeep rain out well but do not always hold up in very high winds. (Wallace 42)Whichever tent is chosen, some common features are necessary. Most tentstoday are designed with a bathtub floor, breathable walls, and a waterproofrainfly. (Drury 56) First campers must find a tent with abathtub bottom. This is sturdy waterproof nylon that covers thebottom and 6 to 16 inches of the tent wall. (Drury 56) This design eliminatesthe need for a ground cloth, thus cutting back on weight. Another importantfeature is the breathable walls. Breathable fabric should prevent condensation,keeping moisture from collecting and getting the camper wet anyway. Finally,tents should be topped with a rainfly. Rainflies enhance ventilation and makesure that the tent is waterproof. (Drury 56) One of the most basic and essentialpieces of equipment is clothing. Clothes are selected based on c omfort,protection, and layering. (Wallace 21) Comfortable clothes are defined as thosethat will keep the body cool in warm weather but warm in cold weather. Clothesshould be selected for the expected temperatures. Clothing quality is veryimportant to backpackers. With the limited wardrobe backpackers have, qualityapparel that is rugged and durable is well worth the money. (Wallace 21) Thesynthetic fabric of recent years has performed well by providing betterinsulation, waterproofing and durability than traditional fabrics. (Wallace21-22) No matter what clothes that campers wear it is essential for them to wearlayers. The more layers worn, the warmer the body. Fewer layers are worn to staycool. (Wallace 23) Layering traps heat that the body produces and keeps it therein air pockets. Layering also keeps packers dry and comfortable. (Wallace 23) Byremoving inner layers perspiration is removed so that the skin stays dry. At thebeginning of the day packers shed layers as it gets warmer. Near eveninghowever, it begins to get cooler and the layers are soon replaced. Rain gear isalways an essential item. No matter what the weather forecast says, nomatter the season, no matter the climate: The only thing that will absolutely,positively guarantee that no rain falls on you during your trip is your raingear(Wallace 23) A sturdy pair of boots are also very important for atrail like the A.T. (Wallace 25) Boots should be flexible on top but stiff inthe sole to prevent feet from twisting. Food is another of the most important,troublesome, and desired items that packers must worry about. On the trail everyounce counts, and most common foods are simply too heavy to haul through themountains on our backs. (Drury 78) Also food must be easy to prepare and be ableto last without a refrigerator. Dehydrated and freeze dried foods do a good jobfulfilling these requirements but their taste leaves something to be desired. .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd , .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .postImageUrl , .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd , .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd:hover , .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd:visited , .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd:active { border:0!important; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd:active , .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ud86ec34b165cf5d2223affcbaf55f9dd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Parent EssaySome people make rice or soup or other naturally long lasting, light, easy toprepare dishes that can be found in the grocery store. Most parts of the A.T. have banned camp fires so a portable stove is a useful item to have. Stoves can be distinguished by the gas that they burn. White gas,kerosene, unleaded gasoline, alcohol, solid/jellied fuels, butane, propane andisobutane are the most common types of fuels that you will find (Drury 62)The weight of the stove and the fuel should be kept in mind, however. (Wallace58-59) Even with all the right gear there is still much more to backpacking. Walking with a 30 to 40 pound pack is like learning how to walk all over again. A slower pace is required to prevent injury. Backpackers should try to walk withan easy stride, establishing a smooth rhythm. (Wallace 49) When walking uphill ashorter stride is better, opening up the stride when traveling downhill. (McManners136) It is very important to take breaks regularly on the trail. The suggestedincrement is a 5-10 minute break every 45 minutes of hiking. (Wallace 50) Breaksallow the packer to relax, look around and really take a good view of thescenery. Wallace contributes Hiking with your eyes on the trail will getyou places, but unless you stop and look around, you wont see where youvebeen (Wallace 50) The Appalachian Trail is indeed great for backpackersfor various reasons. The Appalachian Trail offers possibilities; who knows whatwill be around the next turn? It provides an opportunity to test oneselfphysically. The trail is a much needed break away from civilized life withmagnificent views padded in along the way. Most importantly though, the trail isa p ath into oneself, a place to think, and to figure out ones place in theworld. (Wallace 9) Understanding the equipment and techniques needed to hike theAppalachian Trail will result in a rewarding trip for anyone who takes up thechallenge of backpacking. BibliographyCurran, Jan. The Appalachian Trail: A Journey of Discovery. RainbowBooks,1991 Drury, Jack, etal. The Campers Guide to Outdoor Pursuits. SagamorePublishing 1997 Hodtetter, Kristin, etal. If it aint broke. May 1998. Online. Backpacker. www.SIRS/Researcher.com/backpacker/_1998 Howe, Steve. AllTerrain Packing. Backpacker. October 1998:94-95 McManners, Hugh . TheComplete Wilderness Training Book . NewYork: Dorling Kindersly, 1994 Walker,Celeste. Take A Hike! . April 1997. Online. Worldhealth Organization. www.Sirs/Researcher.com/Hike/1997Wallace, Joseph. The Backpackers Companion. Smithwork. 1992Sports and Games