According to legend, in the 11th Century, in order to convince her husband to lower taxes, Lady Godiva rode naked through the streets of Coventry. Who was the only person who looked at her?

The legend of Lady Godiva's naked horseback ride through Coventry to protest her husband's taxes is a famous tale, but the character of the man who secretly watched her is a later addition to the story. According to the legend, the townspeople, in a show of respect and support for Lady Godiva's cause, agreed to stay indoors and avert their eyes. However, one man, a tailor named Tom, could not resist the temptation to look. This act of voyeurism earned him the name "Peeping Tom."

The addition of Peeping Tom to the narrative is not found in the earliest accounts of Lady Godiva's ride, which date back to the 13th century. He is believed to have been introduced into the story in the 17th century. As punishment for disobeying Lady Godiva's proclamation and for his intrusive gaze, the legend says that Tom was struck blind or even dead. This dramatic consequence served to emphasize the respect and honor the rest of the community showed her.

Over time, the story of Peeping Tom became so intertwined with the legend of Lady Godiva that he is now a central figure in most retellings. His name has entered the English language as a term for a voyeur. The tale serves as a moral lesson about privacy and the consequences of prurient curiosity. While the historical accuracy of Lady Godiva's ride itself is debated by historians, the enduring legend of Peeping Tom adds a layer of intrigue and a cautionary element to this classic story.