Longing for the Scaffold – Interpretations of and Reactions to Crimes Committed in Order to be Executed

Why would anyone seek to be hanged, decapitated, or otherwise executed? This book deals with this central question, but mostly it studies how this inclination was discussed and interpreted and how the authorities reacted to it. Compared to earlier research, dealing with cities or countries, the international perspective is of importance throughout this book. The role of theology and especially soteriology in discussions and actions is also emphasised. Although the problem probably is universal,