Execution of John Ball
John Ball, a radical priest and leader of the Peasants' Revolt, is being executed by hanging on the outskirts of St Albans. The crowd watches in a mix of defiance and despair as the executioner prepar
Setting
The outskirts of St Albans, near the abbey grounds. A makeshift gallows stands on a patch of uneven ground, surrounded by a crowd of townsfolk and peasants. The abbey looms in the background, its stone walls weathered by time.
Characters
John Ball
primary
A gaunt man in his late 40s, with sunken cheeks and piercing eyes that burn with fervor. His once-dark hair is now streaked with grey, and his hands, though bound, bear the callouses of both labor and writing. His posture remains upright despite the noose around his neck, a testament to his unbroken spirit.
Executioner
primary
A burly, middle-aged man with a thick, unkempt beard and weathered skin from years of outdoor labor. His muscular arms bear old scars, likely from past fights or accidents. His eyes are downcast, avoiding direct contact with either John Ball or the Abbot.
Abbot
secondary
A middle-aged man of imposing stature, with a stern countenance and piercing eyes. His face is lined with the weight of authority, and his posture exudes dominance. His hands are clasped in front of him, fingers interlaced, a gesture of controlled power.
Angry Peasant
secondary
A rugged man in his late 30s, with a wiry frame and sun-weathered skin. His hands are calloused from years of labor, and his dark hair is unkempt, streaked with premature gray. His eyes burn with righteous fury.
Weeping Woman
background
A middle-aged woman with a thin, worn face and sunken eyes from years of hardship. Her dark hair is streaked with grey and loosely covered by a frayed wimple. Her hands are rough from labor, clutching at her threadbare shawl.
Dialog
John Ball
Good people, weep not for me, for I die in the cause of truth! When Adam delved and Eve span, who was then the gentleman?
Executioner
Father... I... must do this thing.
Abbot
Procedamus in pace. Let God's will be done upon this rebel who defied both Church and Crown.
John Ball
I see no God's will here, only the cruelty of men who chain their brothers!
Executioner
The... the knot won't sit right, m'lord...
Abbot
Then make it sit right, or shall I find one who can?
John Ball
The last breath of a free man tastes sweeter than all the lies of tyrants!