So after reading the first book many many years ago, I've finally completed Bernard Cornwell's "Grail Quest" trilogy.  I love Cornwell's historical adventure novels and have once again begun contemplating re-reading the Sharpe series (all 21 books).  Anyways, I digress.  Reading a book set in medieval Europe, I found my sadistic side pretty well satisfied.  Nothing quite like the Inquisition, if I dress up in a robe would anyone volunteer to pose as a 'witch'?

At any rate, that experience reminded me of reading Civil War books' descriptions of field punishments.  Is it odd to view those pages as less a recording of historical events and more a source of inspiration?  Replace the dirty, sweaty soldier with a fine looking lass and wha-bam, fun times could ensue.  And I have always wanted to try administering a bucking and gagging...

The stereotypical idea of "whips and chains" kinda bugs me.  I mean, chains are frakking expensive.  I prefer rope.  Isn't rope more common anyway?  At any rate it's more aesthetically pleasing, in my humble opinion.  Maybe rope requires a little more skill.  Or does it?  Though it is always funny to remember the younger me learning knots and saying "when am I ever going to use this?"  I should've known better