While we can all agree that the human mind is the very symbol of evolution capable of conjuring a plethora of inventions beneficial to humankind; it is also equally capable of devising sadistic methods just to torture another living being; most of which are cruel beyond description. 

Here are five of the cruelest torture methods ever recorded in history that'll make you lose faith in humanity. 

1. Blood Eagle, Or Giving The Victim "Wings" Made From Their Own Ribs 

This barbaric torture method was first recorded in ancient Norse poetry and while there hasn't been other scriptures or evidence to suggest it was actually practiced in the ancient world, still it deserves a spot on the list. 

The victim would be placed in a prone position, and their back sliced open to reveal their lungs. One by one their ribs will be mercilessly pulled outwards from the spine until the lungs are visible. Oh, and did I mention this entire ritual is done while the victim is fully conscious? 

2. Lingchi, Or Death By A Thousand Cuts 

It's a type of public execution method practiced during the Ming Dynasty in the 14th century, which was finally banned in the year 1905. How it works:

The victim will be tied to a pole and the executioner(s) would then slowly and deliberately slice through major muscles in the victim's body and this could take between 15 minutes to a few days until the victim finally gives in to the excruciating pain of being a human kebab. If you're curious, here are some real, gory pictures of the execution.  I wouldn't advise clicking on it though, you've been warned. 

3. The Bamboo Torture

This was allegedly practiced in East and South Asia and is one of the most gruesome torture methods in history. The victim would be tied in place (to the point of no escape) under young bamboo roots. Since bamboos are naturally quick to grow, it wouldn't be long before the bamboos would penetrate into the victim's skin, and slowly, the victim would then bleed to death after days of excruciating agony.

4. Brazen Bull 

Ancient Greeks invented this torture device partially as a source of entertainment for the onlookers deranged enough to find humor in sufferings. The brazen bull refers to the bronze hollowed statue in the shape of a bull where the victim will be locked inside. The bronze statue would then be lighted on fire, quite literally boiling the victim alive. The statue had built-in pipes designed in a way that any scream let out from inside would resemble the roars of an angry bull and that was, believe it or not, a source of entertainment back in the day. 

5. Pear of Anguish

Otherwise known as choke pear, this is a torture device often inserted into a victim's anus or vagina and once activated, would “bloom“ inside their body, causing unspeakable internal damage. This device is said to be performed on women accused of witchcraft or adulteries, homosexuals, and blasphemers. 

Whoever daring enough to commit a crime in the ancient world must have had a sick death wish.