Crimes, Punishments & Law Enforcement Key Terms
This page provides essential definitions and concepts related to medieval laws and punishments. It covers various types of crimes, law enforcement methods, and key legal terms used in medieval England.
Definition: Crimes against the person included theft and murder, with a distinction made between serious and minor offenses.
Definition: Crimes against property encompassed activities like stealing crops and poaching, with poaching often viewed as a 'social crime'.
Vocabulary: Tithings were groups of 10 males aged 12 and over who shared collective responsibility for local law enforcement.
The page also introduces important legal concepts such as deterrence and retribution, as well as specific medieval practices like sanctuary and benefit of clergy.
Highlight: The "hue and cry" system involved local bystanders being summoned to assist in catching criminals, demonstrating community involvement in law enforcement.
The introduction of the parish constable in 1285 marked a significant development in local law enforcement structures.
Change and Continuity after the Norman Conquest c1066-c1200
This section explores the legal changes implemented following the Norman Conquest, highlighting both continuities and changes in the English legal system.
Example: The Forest Laws, introduced by William the Conqueror, banned hunting, collection of firewood, and grazing of animals in forests. Punishments for violating these laws were severe, including blinding and execution for repeat offenses.
The Murdrum Fine was a notable change, making Saxon communities collectively responsible for the murder of Normans. This served as a deterrent and placed responsibility for maintaining order on the entire community.
Highlight: William generally retained many of Edward the Confessor's laws to stress continuity and legitimize his succession.
The abolition of wergild and its replacement with payments to the King marked a significant shift in the purpose and beneficiary of legal compensation.
