Medieval Glossary
Stocks
A form of punishment in which the prisoner was placed in a wooden frame with holes used to confine the legs (and sometimes the arms) of minor offenders. Its purpose was to expose the prisoner to public humiliation. It continued in use in Europe and the USA until the 19th century. The pillory had a similar purpose.
Related term(s): Pillory; Ordeal
Category: Government and Law
Added: 09.01.04
Last modified: 08.07.05
Contributor(s):
Alan Chanter
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