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Eleanor doing penance for witchcraft, 1441, (1789) Artist: Anker Smith
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Eleanor doing penance for witchcraft, 1441, (1789) Artist: Anker Smith
Eleanor doing penance for witchcraft, 1441, (1789). Eleanor Cobham (1400-1454), Duchess of Gloucester, was charged with unlawful commerce with Marjory Jourdemain, the Witch of Eye, and conspiring to bring about the death of King Henry VI (1421-1471) by magic. She submitted herself to the correction of the Church and did penance by walking without a hood, from Temple Bar to St Pauls Cathedral in London, carrying a lit taper, to offer it to the high altar. She was subsequently exiled to the Isle of Man, spending the rest of her life imprisoned in Peel Castle
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Media ID 15465809
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Anker Cobham Duchess Of Duchess Of Gloucester Eleanor Gloucester Humiliated Humiliating Humiliation Penance Punishment Robert Smirke Smirke Smith Torch Treason Witchcraft
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photo print, titled "Eleanor doing penance for witchcraft, 1441" by Anker Smith in 1789, transports us back to a significant moment in history. The image depicts Eleanor Cobham (1400-1454), the Duchess of Gloucester, as she endures the consequences of her alleged crimes. Accused of engaging in unlawful activities with Marjory Jourdemain, known as the Witch of Eye, and conspiring against King Henry VI through magic, Eleanor chose to seek redemption through the Church. In an act of public contrition and submission to religious authority, Eleanor is seen walking along an avenue from Temple Bar to St Paul's Cathedral in London. Her head uncovered and carrying a lit taper symbolizing her offering at the high altar, she displays both humility and remorse. As onlookers line the street watching this solemn procession unfold before them, one can only imagine their mixed emotions - curiosity mingled with judgment or perhaps even sympathy. The artist skillfully captures not only Eleanor's physical journey but also conveys a sense of her emotional turmoil during this humiliating ordeal. The monochrome palette adds depth and intensity to the scene while emphasizing its historical context within medieval England. This powerful image serves as a reminder that even those who held positions of power were subject to accusations and punishment based on superstitions surrounding witchcraft during this era. It invites contemplation about justice systems throughout history and raises questions about how society has evolved since then.
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