Literal translation - is the rendering of text from one language to another one word at a time with or without conveying the sense of the original whole
idiomatic translation - the ability to recognize and interpret idiom correctly and the difficulties involved in rendering the various aspects of meaning that an idiom or fixed expression conveys into the target language
Sardonic comment is one when sharp humour is used in a disdainful manner.
Danforth needed a confession because the rule was that if they did not confess, they were hanged. If they did not confess and Danforth decided not to hang them, the town would become angry because 12 others were already hanged for not confessing.
Hope this helps!
