The Tudor Society

Execution speeches and scaffold behaviour – making a good end

This week we've had the anniversary of the execution of Queen Anne Boleyn and what not many people realise is that her speech was very similar to others given in the 16th century, it really wasn't unique at all.

In this week's Claire Chats talk, I look at the ritual of death, both natural and by execution, and what was expected of an execution victim in their last minutes of life.

Sir Walter Ralegh's speech can be read at https://www.bartleby.com/268/3/6.html

There are 2 comments Go To Comment

  1. L

    Thanks Claire, for this talk, and reminding us of the very different time and context in the 16th century, when these executions and the associated speeches took place. Much different considerations then than we realize now..

  2. D

    Weird that they could stay composed enough to give a speech when they must have been terrified. Good talk thank you

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Execution speeches and scaffold behaviour – making a good end