This was the punishment for “talkative” women in medieval Europe During the Middle Ages, women labeled as “talkative” or “disobedient” were subjected to a cruel and humiliating punishment: the “scold’s bridle,” an iron mask fitted with a metal bit that forced their mouths shut. This device originated in Germany around 1550 and was used across Europe until the 18th century to suppress speech and enforce compliance.The scold’s bridle often featured a jagged or spiked metal piece that sat in the mouth, making speaking or even moving the tongue excruciatingly painful. Some versions included additional humiliations, such as bells attached to the headpiece to draw public attention, turning the victim into a walking spectacle of shame.
