Titus Oates in the pillory
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Titus Oates in the pillory
Oates was convicted of sedition and later perjury for denouncing the King and his Catholic brother, the Duke of York. Date: 19th century
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20032514
© Mary Evans / Peter & Dawn Cope Collection Mary Evans / Peter & Dawn Cope Collection
Brother Convicted Oates Pillory Sedition Titus Denouncing Perjury
EDITORS COMMENTS
Titus Oates in the Pillory: A 17th Century Scandal and the Downfall of a False Prophet This evocative image captures the moment of public humiliation and shame for Titus Oates, a notorious English clergyman and convicted liar, who in the late 17th century became infamous for his false denunciations of the King and his Catholic brother, the Duke of York. Born in 1649, Oates rose to prominence during the tumultuous period of English history known as the Popish Plot. In 1678, he claimed to have discovered a plot by Catholic conspirators to assassinate King Charles II and his brother, the Duke of York, and to murder the entire Protestant nobility. Oates' sensational allegations sent shockwaves through the country, leading to widespread panic and the arrest of over 300 people. However, it soon became apparent that Oates' claims were fabricated, and he was exposed as a liar. In 1679, he was charged with sedition and perjury for his false denunciations. The image of Oates in the pillory, a form of public punishment, is a poignant reminder of the consequences of his actions. The pillory was a wooden frame with three holes, designed to hold the head and hands of the offender, exposing them to public ridicule and abuse. In this image, Oates is shown with a look of defiance and contempt, despite the jeers and taunts of the crowd. The pillory was a common form of punishment for those who had committed crimes against the state, and it served as a powerful deterrent and a warning to others. Oates' downfall marked the end of the Popish Plot, and he was eventually pardoned and allowed to leave England. However, his reputation was irreparably damaged, and he spent the rest of his life in obscurity. This image is a stark reminder of the dangers of false accusations and the power of public opinion.
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