It imposed the death penalty for incest, and for adultery, that was defined as sexual intercourse between a married woman and a man other than her husband.
Both partners would be liable for death sentence in such a case, although the courts were reluctant to impose the ultimate penalty.
[1][2] It did not apply to women whose husbands were absent for more than three years and not known to be living.
[3] Like other legislation passed by the Commonwealth of England, the act was repealed following the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660.
[4]: 225 In the history of adultery in English law, the Act represents the only time since the twelfth century when adultery has been outlawed in secular statute law.