By Sarah Norman | February 8, 2024

The Drunkard's Cloak

In the modern era there's nothing quite as upsetting as being "cancelled," but that's nothing compared to the public shame that came with the Drunkard's Cloak. This unique form of punishment popped up in 16th-century England and while it's faded from memory it remains one of the most embarrassing punishments ever imagined. Join us as we explore the fascinating tale of this unique form of punishment, its connections to drinking culture, and its surprising effectiveness.

Picture this: a person found guilty of multiple drunken offenses being forced to wear an empty beer barrel with holes for their head and arms. This makeshift "cloak" became the emblem of public shaming, paraded through town as a stark reminder of the consequences of excessive drinking. It makes sense that just seeing someone forced to wear a barrel would put you off the sauce for good. 

It All Begins In Newcastle

Newcastle upon Tyne, nestled in northeast England, is often associated with the Drunkard's Cloak. Some historians believe it was here that this peculiar punishment first saw the light of day. Why Newcastle? The city had a reputation for its deep-seated drinking culture, and even in the 18th century, "Newcastle hospitality" meant treating someone to a night of heavy drinking.

Drinking Culture Through the Ages

Drinking culture has deep roots in England's history. Back in the day, people turned to alcohol to unwind after arduous work, often in coal mines and shipyards. Workers who had been away for months were known to indulge in drinks upon their return home, contributing to the drinking culture. As much as drinking was ingrained in the culture, not everyone loved that aspect of society.

Regulating Alcohol Consumption

To combat the consequences of unbridled drinking, Parliament took steps to regulate alcohol consumption across England. The Ale Houses Act of 1551 was enacted, making drunkenness a civil offense. Repeated arrests for public intoxication led to the implementation of the Drunkard's Cloak as a form of punishment.

A Punishment Tailored to Fit the Crime

It's said that King James I of England, known for crafting punishments that matched the crime, may have been the mind behind the Drunkard's Cloak. The punishment gained popularity during the rule of Oliver Cromwell, a figure who strongly disapproved of drinking, games, and dancing.

The Drunkard's Cloak: World Tour

The Drunkard's Cloak was not confined to England; it spread across Europe. In Germany, it was the "Schandmantel," the "coat of shame," and in Denmark, it had its own version known as the "Spanish Mantle."

Crossing the Atlantic

By the 19th century, the Drunkard's Cloak had crossed the Atlantic, making its way to the United States. During the Civil War, it was even used to punish soldiers who had indulged in excessive drinking.

Public Shaming's Surprising Efficacy

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the Drunkard's Cloak was its effectiveness. Despite its relatively mild nature compared to other forms of punishment, it relied on the power of public scrutiny to change behavior. Many found themselves reforming their ways after wearing the cloak.

The Drunkard's Cloak may have been an unusual chapter in history, but it speaks volumes about the enduring interplay between culture and consequence.

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