The scold's bridle

The "scold's bridle" was a medieval instrument of punishment and humiliation used primarily against women accused of being overly talkative, nagging, or gossiping—often labeled as "scolds" in the 16th and 17th centuries. This device, made of iron, encased the victim's head and included a metal bit or tongue piece that would press down on the tongue, making it impossible to speak. It was fastened tightly around the head, and sometimes, the bit would have spikes that would pierce the tongue or mouth if the victim attempted to talk or move it.

The scold's bridle was used predominantly on women, though occasionally it was employed on men, particularly those who were seen as unruly or dissenting. It was used on individuals deemed disruptive, especially in public spaces, to silence them and serve as a form of social control. Women accused of witchcraft, rebelliousness, or expressing opinions that challenged the status quo were frequently targeted. The punishment was public, often turning the victim into a spectacle for ridicule and shame.

By forcibly silencing its victims, the scold’s bridle functioned as a brutal tool of oppression. It enforced obedience and conformed to societal norms about the expected role and behavior of women, especially in patriarchal societies where female speech or dissent was seen as a threat to the established order. The device, alongside public humiliation, aimed to strip victims of their dignity, force submission, and maintain control over those who dared to defy societal expectations.