Dark Histories The Case of Elizabeth Fenning & The Poison Dumplings
Oct 7, 2024
Dive into the tumultuous tale of Elizabeth Fenning, a young cook ensnared in a web of poison and prosecution in Regency London. As she stands trial for allegedly lacing dumplings with arsenic, the narrative reveals a society rife with class divides and public outrage. The episode scrutinizes shaky evidence, media sensationalism, and the flawed judicial process of the time. Throughout, listeners are prompted to reflect on the complexities of innocence and guilt amid societal expectations and injustices.
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The Poisoning Incident
- Elizabeth Fenning, a 21-year-old cook, was accused of poisoning the Turner family with arsenic-laced dumplings.
- The incident caused widespread sickness, leading to her arrest and a trial at the Old Bailey.
Media Influence and Public Opinion
- Media coverage of Elizabeth's case heavily influenced public opinion against her before the trial even began.
- Newspapers like The Globe fueled public outrage, emphasizing the class divide and portraying Elizabeth as a monster.
Post-Trial Public Discourse
- Public and media opinions shifted after the trial, with many questioning the verdict and highlighting inconsistencies in the evidence.
- William Hone published a pamphlet criticizing the trial's conduct and the lack of strong evidence against Elizabeth.