On her website, Execution Ballads, Dr Una McIlvenna writes:

"Across Europe, from the sixteenth century until the early twentieth century, the news of the deeds of criminals and their subsequent executions was delivered via song, often printed on cheap, single-sheet broadsides or small, book-like pamphlets, as well as passed on orally or via manuscript. Songs were usually set to a familiar tune (often indicated at the top of the pamphlet), which allowed anyone to easily sing along. They were sold in busy streets and marketplaces by street singers, who usually sang the contents of the pamphlet in order to promote their wares."

In the episode of the podcast, Una discusses, and sometimes sings extracts of, execution ballads spanning four centuries of our history.

Content warning: This episode contains descriptions of historic execution and torture. Listener discretion is advised.

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