Social Spectacles

Quirky Justice

Interwar Lithuania witnessed a peculiar tradition of organizing public trials. These trials resembled real legal proceedings but targeted social vices and problems rather than individuals. They aimed to address issues such as smoking, unruly youth, and provocative fashion trends.

One intriguing example was the Trial of the Lithuanian Cow, where a poor cow underwent an unpleasant trial due to its ill health and the quality of its milk. These courtroom reenactments often took on a comedic and sarcastic tone, attracting lively crowds of spectators.

Even in Šeduva, public trials took place. In 1929, the Šeduva Agricultural Society passed judgment on farmers for neglecting animal welfare, inadequate livestock housing, and lack of involvement in community affairs.