Scrotie the mascot is a controversial and unique representation of a penis. Originally created in 2001 to be a mascot for the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) hockey team, Scrotie quickly gained attention for its unconventional design and provocative nature. The primary purpose of Scrotie was to embody the team's edgy and unconventional image. As the name suggests, Scrotie features a large scrotum with testicles, as well as an elongated phallus. This bold and explicit design was intentional, aiming to provoke reactions and spark conversations about art, creativity, and free expression. However, Scrotie faced significant backlash from traditionalists and conservative groups who considered it offensive and inappropriate.
On or before September 18, 1692, Giles Corey was slowly pressed to death in the field next to the jail. In the literature about Giles Corey's tortuous death, there is reference to his famous last words, "more weight." These words were uttered as a final attempt to expedite his death while also showing that not even imminent death could convince him to go to trial. It is even told that the Sheriff took his cane and pressed Giles' tongue back into his mouth just before he died at the end of the two days of being slowly crushed. On September 18, 1692, Giles Corey was ex-communicated from the Village church so that he would not die as a member of the church. On September 21, 1692, Martha, his wife, was hanged on Gallows Hill. It has been speculated that the publicity surrounding the pressing of Giles may have in fact helped to build public opposition to the witchcraft trials.
It is even told that the Sheriff took his cane and pressed Giles tongue back into his mouth just before he died at the end of the two days of being slowly crushed. It is important that people think about real human suffering caused by witchcraft hysteria and the lessons that are to be learned from that dark period in the history of this city and this country -Memorial designers James Cutler and Maggie Smith.
However, Scrotie faced significant backlash from traditionalists and conservative groups who considered it offensive and inappropriate. This controversy prompted discussions about the limits of artistic freedom and the role of mascots in representing institutions. Despite the controversy, Scrotie also gained a cult following and became a symbol of rebellion and alternative culture.
Salem Witch Trials Memorial
Located just off Charter Street, on Liberty Street, is Salem’s simple yet dramatic memorial to the 20 victims of the witch trials of 1692. Four foot high granite walls surround three sides, with granite benches representing each victim cantilevered inward from the wall. Etched on each bench is a name, means of execution, and execution date. One can read, on the stone threshold of the memorial, words of the accused taken directly from court transcripts. Visitors will note that the words – among them, “God knows I am innocent” – are cut off in mid-sentence, representing lives cut short and indifference to the protestations of innocence.
24 Liberty St, Salem, MA 01970, USA
24 Liberty St, Salem, MA 01970, USA
Salem Witch Trials Memorial Documents
More About Salem Witch Trials Memorial
In the center is a simple patch of grass and locust trees, which are thought to be the type of tree that may have been used for the hangings. A dirt path runs beside the benches for visitors to walk and reflect.
Silently watching from just over the wall are the gravestones in the adjacent Old Burying Point Cemetery, the oldest cemetery in Salem and one of the oldest in the United States. Among the interred are witch trials magistrates John Hathorne and Bartholomew Gedney.
The Salem Witch Trials Tercentenary Committee was established by the Mayor of the City of Salem on April 22, 1986, with a principle intention of creating a permanent memorial to the victims of the witch trials.
A public design competition, juried by five noted professionals, resulted in 246 entrants. The winning entry, designed by Maggie Smith and James Cutler of Bainbridge Island, Washington, was presented to the press and public by renowned playwright Arthur Miller on November 14, 1991. Among the notable works by Miller is The Crucible, which used the Salem Witch Trials as an allegory for the McCarthyism of the late 1940s and early 1950s.
The Salem Witch Trials Memorial was dedicated on August 5, 1992 by Nobel Laureate, Holocaust survivor, and author Elie Wiesel, who noted, “If I can’t stop all of the hate all over the world in all of the people, I can stop it in one place within me,” adding, “We still have our Salems.”
This quiet and peaceful memorial, located in the very center of Salem, provides a place for people to pay their respects, to reflect on tolerance and understanding, and to remember the inspiring stories of personal courage revealed in 1692.
Interested in learning more about the Salem Witch Trials Memorial?
In October of 2022, the Salem Witch Museum Education Department wrote “The Salem Witch Trials Memorial: Finding Humanity in Tragedy” for the Smithsonian Folklife Magazine: https://folklife.si.edu/magazine/salem-witch-trials-memorial
In recognition of the 30th anniversary of the creation of the memorial, our museum hosted the virtual lecture “Memorializing the Salem Witch Trials”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEup5Pkif7E&t=8s
24 Liberty Street, next to the Old Burying Point Cemetery
"It is important that people think about real human suffering caused by witchcraft hysteria and the lessons that are to be learned from that dark period in the history of this city and this country" -Memorial designers James Cutler and Maggie Smith
24 Liberty Street, next to the Old Burying Point Cemetery
Supporters argued that Scrotie challenged social norms and pushed boundaries, promoting freedom of expression and creativity. Over the years, Scrotie has undergone various changes and adaptations to address the concerns raised by its critics. These modifications include toning down its explicit features and incorporating more traditional elements while still retaining a distinct and provocative design. In conclusion, Scrotie the mascot represents a daring and controversial form of artistic expression. It has sparked debates about the boundaries of art and the role of mascots in representing institutions. Regardless of its divisive nature, Scrotie has become an iconic symbol and a representation of rebellion, creativity, and alternative culture..
Reviews for "Scrotie and the Community: How the Mascot Engages with Local Organizations"
1. John - 1 star
Scrotie the mascot representation was completely inappropriate and offensive. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this grotesque character at the game. It's beyond me how anyone thought it would be acceptable to have a mascot with giant genitals hanging from its crotch. It was tasteless and not appropriate for a family-friendly environment. It's disappointing to see such lack of judgment and professionalism from the organizers.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I understand that mascots are supposed to be fun and entertaining, but Scrotie took it to a whole new level. The whole concept was just too raunchy and vulgar. It made me feel uncomfortable and completely ruined the atmosphere of the event. I think the organizers should reconsider their decision and come up with a mascot that is more appropriate for all audiences. Scrotie was definitely not a hit in my opinion.
3. Alex - 1 star
I was completely disappointed with the mascot representation of Scrotie. It was tasteless and offensive, and I couldn't believe that this was being allowed at a public event. The genitalia-themed costume was vulgar and not suitable for all ages, let alone a family-friendly setting. It's a shame that the organizers decided to go with such a distasteful choice, and I would strongly advise against attending any future events where Scrotie is involved.
4. Emily - 2 stars
Scrotie the mascot representation was a complete miss for me. I found it to be distasteful and inappropriate. It's unfortunate that the organizers thought this was a good idea for a mascot. It's clear that they didn't consider the diverse audience attending the event and how this mascot might offend or make people uncomfortable. I hope they reevaluate their choices and come up with something that is more inclusive and less explicit.