(4) The Sage

[Tony, Emperor and Autocrat]

For this discussion post, please post at least one question and one response. I would request (though not require) that with your discussion posts, utilize your critical thinking skills. I know you all have them!

Here is my question:

In this section, we learn that Frantz has a mostly unsympathetic view on thievery compared to today's society. Frantz believes that the thieves allowed themselves to be hung since they knew the risks of stealing. Meanwhile modern society would be against a death penalty for burglary. Do you agree with Frantz's stance, or do you think it is a barbaric mindset? Is it possible that most people in that time period thought the same as Frantz or did his job influence his opinions?

[Ryan]

It's fascinating to see how Frantz Schmidt's long career in executions has shaped his worldview. This chapter certainly gives more insight into how Frantz thought he fit into society and how he viewed the systems of control that he worked for.

My question for this chapter:
What reasons does the author give for why Frantz viewed acts of class violence and burglary as particularly dishonorable?

[Tony, Emperor and Autocrat]

In response to Ryan's question:

I didn't realize that both of our questions are quite similar until after I finished mine. Regardless, Frantz views these acts as dishonorable since it can tarnish the perpetrators family name and that repeating the offense (which was common in most of Frantz's criminals) can gain you less sympathy from both your families, community, and court officials. He also found that these acts go against his core Lutheran beliefs.