Key Insights
Why did the emperor Jiajing in ancient China collect menstrual blood from young girls?
He believed it would grant him immortality.
What was the purpose of the brazen bull torture device?
To slowly roast a person alive inside a hollow bronze bull, amplifying their screams into a bull's roar.
Why was Mithridates, the soldier who killed Cyrus, tortured to death?
He insulted the king by revealing he was paid to keep quiet about killing Cyrus.
What was the method of torture called scaphism?
A wooden box enclosing the victim's torso, floated in water, force-fed, covered in milk and honey, and left to be eaten by insects.
Why did the people of Acragas throw the brazen bull into the ocean?
To rid the city of its brutal torture device.
What was the emperor's response to the failed assassination attempt by his concubines?
He ordered all 16 concubines involved to be subjected to Ling Cher, a brutal form of torture.
Why did Phalaris, the ruler of Acragas, become infamous?
He was known for his tyrannical rule, violent methods, and rumored cannibalism.
What was the significance of the torture method Ling Cher?
It was believed to prevent the victim from finding peace in the afterlife.
Why did Perilous create the brazen bull?
To impress and gain favor with the cruel ruler Phalaris.
What was the outcome of Cyrus's attempt to reclaim the Persian throne?
He was killed by a soldier before reaching the palace.
Chapters
- Ling Cher was used from 220 BC to the mid-1300s AD.
- It was reserved for traitors, high-profile murderers, and those who crossed Chinese royalty.
- Victims believed they would never find peace in the afterlife due to their disfigured bodies.
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