George Orwell, former imperial police officer in British Burma, describes his experience witnessing a hanging in the 1920s. Topics include the jail yard, preparations for execution, unexpected dog interruption, observations before the hanging, and the execution and aftermath. A humorous moment of a man clinging to the bars is also recounted.
Orwell's vivid description of the hanging conveys the stark reality of taking a conscious life and its profound impact on witnesses.
The aftermath of the hanging reveals the seemingly casual reactions of those present, using lighthearted conversation and laughter to ease the tension.
Deep dives
Description of the Hanging and Characters Involved
The podcast presents a historical account of a hanging witnessed by George Orwell during his time as an imperial police officer in Burma. The description provides vivid details of the execution process, including the preparation of the prisoner, the presence of Indian warders, and the superintendent's impatience. The narrative also highlights the unexpected interruption of a dog, which momentarily disrupts the solemnity of the scene. Orwell's observations convey the stark reality of taking a conscious life and its profound impact on all witnesses.
The Gallows and the Hanging Process
The gallows where the hanging takes place is described as a brick structure with planking on top. The hangman, a grey-haired convict, prepares the noose and places it around the prisoner's neck. As the prisoner cries out to his god, the hangman covers his face with a cloth bag. The podcast emphasizes the steady rhythm of the prisoner's cries and the growing discomfort among the witnesses. Finally, the superintendent abruptly gives the signal, and the prisoner is swiftly executed. The relief among the onlookers is palpable, and they quickly return to their daily routines, leaving the lifeless body behind.
Aftermath and Unexpected Reactions
After the hanging, the podcast shifts to the aftermath and the seemingly casual reactions of those present. The superintendant, warders, and observers engage in lighthearted conversation and laughter, as if to ease the tension brought about by witnessing the execution. The podcast concludes by mentioning the works of Emily Dickinson and promising future episodes exploring Orwell's experiences with tramps in England and the poetry of Dickinson.
Whilst serving as an imperial police officer in British occupied Burma (now Myanmar) in the 1920's Orwell witnessed a hanging which he later wrote about in his book of Essays.
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Orwell, George Essays, Penguin reprint 2000
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