One notable individual imprisoned in Pembroke Castle was John Whithorne, who was unjustly held captive in the 1440s.
The Imprisonment of John Whithorne
John Whithorne was imprisoned by Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester and Earl of Pembroke, a powerful figure of the time. The primary motivation for Whithorne's incarceration was the Duke's desire to gain control over Whithorne's land, which was located on the Isle of Wight.
The conditions of Whithorne's imprisonment in the dungeon tower of Pembroke Castle were severe and inhumane:
- Lack of Food: He suffered from extreme food deprivation.
- Lack of Clothing: Inadequate clothing would have contributed to his suffering, especially in a cold stone dungeon.
- Lack of Light: The dungeon was so dark that it led to serious health consequences.
- Severe Health Deterioration: Due to these harsh conditions, John Whithorne tragically went blind and endured "other incurable ills."
This imprisonment serves as a stark example of the abuses of power that could occur during the medieval period, where individuals could be unjustly detained to further the personal interests of powerful lords.
Key Facts About John Whithorne's Imprisonment
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Prisoner | John Whithorne |
| Imprisor | Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester & Earl of Pembroke |
| Year | 1440s |
| Location within Castle | Dungeon Tower |
| Reason for Imprisonment | To gain control over Whithorne's land on the Isle of Wight |
| Conditions Experienced | Severe lack of food, clothing, and light; led to blindness and incurable ills |
