The podcast dives into the chilling world of executioners and the harrowing tasks they performed, including public executions and their societal implications. It highlights notorious figures like Jan Midlar and Elizabeth Segru, showcasing the grim legacy left by these historical characters. The narrative captures the eerie psychology of executioners, their complex relationship with death, and the societal dread that surrounded them. With vivid recounting of grim events, the podcast brings a haunting yet fascinating perspective to these dark professions.
The podcast explores the grim realities of executioners, highlighting their societal isolation and the stigma attached to their necessary, yet gruesome, profession.
Lady Betty's chilling legacy as Ireland's first female executioner underscores the disturbing intersection of duty and empowerment within the horrific context of her role.
Deep dives
Spring in Park City, Utah
Spring in Park City, Utah, offers a uniquely delightful experience characterized by clear blue skies and excellent skiing conditions at renowned resorts like Park City Mountain and Deer Valley. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on miles of expansive trails. The historic Main Street, known for its vibrant après-ski scene, features award-winning restaurants that provide a perfect setting for relaxation after a day filled with adventures. This combination of beautiful scenery and thrilling outdoor activities solidifies Park City as a favored winter destination.
The Life of Nightsoil Men
Nightsoil men held one of the most unpleasant jobs in history, tasked with the disposal of human waste before modern plumbing existed. They worked during the late-night hours to minimize the odor and to prevent complaints from the public. These laborers would lower themselves into cesspools, shoveling out waste to later sell as fertilizer to farmers. Despite the horrific nature of their work, they were often well-compensated, which kept them returning to this odorous profession.
Executioners of History
Executioners throughout history were often social outcasts, burdened with the stigma of their professions, which typically involved both killing and torture. People like Jan Midlar, a notorious executioner in Prague, executed 27 Protestant rebels in a single day, demonstrating the gruesome realities of their roles. Executioners often had limited options and were commonly born into the trade, facing societal rejection despite fulfilling a grim but necessary duty. Their jobs not only isolated them from society but also subjected them to public derision, even when they did their jobs with precision.
The Notorious Lady Betty
Elizabeth Segru, known as Lady Betty, became Ireland's first and only female executioner after she executed fellow inmates in a chilling display of efficiency, which included executing 24 people in one day. Her history of cruelty and her gruesome job earned her a notorious reputation, and she embraced her role with a disturbing passion, enjoying the public executions. Lady Betty even transformed her living space into a macabre reflection of her victims, hanging their sketches around her room. The gruesome folklore surrounding her name persists as a cautionary tale, suggesting that for some, the horror of execution is both a job and a twisted form of empowerment.
Some of the most terrifying legends in history come from one place: beneath the shadow of an executioner.
Narrated and produced by Aaron Mahnke, with writing by Alex Robinson and research bySam Alberty.
—————————
Sponsors:
SimpliSafe: Secure your home with 24/7 professional monitoring. Sign up today at SimpliSafe.com/Lore to get 20% off any new SimpliSafe system with Fast Protect Monitoring.
Mint Mobile: For a limited time, wireless plans from Mint Mobile are $15 a month when you purchase a 3-month plan with UNLIMITED talk, text and data at MintMobile.com/lore.