The Heads that fell in Paris

The book explores the evolution of punishment in France, highlighting the abolition of torture practices like whipping and the rack by 1810. It details the significant changes in the treatment of parricide offenders, who were spared the brutal amputation of their right hand starting in 1832. Despite these reforms, the guillotine remained in use until 1977, with prominent figures like Victor Hugo and his son Charles advocating against it. The narrative delves into the societal and legal shifts surrounding capital punishment over the years.