A Trial in Jahiliya
A man in handcuffs is led into the court, followed by a guard carrying a box. The man is led to the box of the accused. The judge enters, and takes a seat at his high table. He nods to an usher who takes his position facing the audience. The judge nods at him.
Usher
The fellow here is accused of breaking the laws of the kingdom of Jahiliya. First, on the second day of the third month he did commit the crime of lèse-majesté, by slandering the king by exhibiting a banner which we have here and can show your honour.
Judge
Go ahead, produce the offending item.
Usher takes out banner, unfurls it revealing the slogan: DOWN WITH ROYALTY, WE NEED A REPUBLIC.
Judge
How do you plead to the charge of lèse-majesté?
Man
Guilty, your honour.
Judge
The law is very clear, you will be banished for a period of three years to the Republic of Samandariya. Take him away.
Usher
There is a second offence your honour.
Judge
I am listening.
Usher
On the same day, to wit on the second day of the third month, he entered the bakery in Fool Street and stole a loaf.
Man
I was hungry your honour.
Judge
You’re admitting the crime?
Man
How else does a hungry man with no money feed himself? What would you have done?
Judge
I pronounce you guilty and sentence you to five years in prison. Take him away.
Usher
Your honour, there’s a third crime. After he stole the loaf, the baker confronted him and he took out a knife and stabbed him to death.
Man
I had no choice your honour, he was much bigger than me.
Judge
I have no choice either, Accused, but to sentence you to death by beheading. Take him away.
Usher
To the usual place of execution, your honour?
Judge
Mr Usher, you’re not thinking straight. If you execute him straight away, you’re letting him off for his two other crimes. First the exile, then jail, and only afterwards the beheading. A man must pay for all his crimes.
