Medieval crime and punishment from 1000-1500 shows how society dealt... Show more
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461
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4 Jan 2026
•
Anglo-Saxon Crime and Punishment Revision Notes
Lillie-Mae Downing
@lilliemaedowning_qcfp
1 / 4
Crime Categories in Medieval England
Medieval society faced three main types of crime that threatened different aspects of daily life. Crimes against the person included serious offences like murder, assault, and public disorder that disrupted community peace.
Property crimes covered theft, arson, and the social crime of poaching - stealing animals from someone else's land. Poaching was particularly common because many people struggled to feed their families whilst wealthy landowners hoarded hunting rights.
When William the Conqueror arrived in 1066, he introduced new crimes to protect Norman interests. The Forest Laws made it illegal to hunt in royal forests without permission, turning traditional hunting into criminal activity overnight.
Key Point: William's new laws weren't just about justice - they were designed to control the Anglo-Saxon population and protect Norman soldiers from revenge attacks.
Community-Based Law Enforcement
Medieval communities had to police themselves since there was no organised police force. The tithing system grouped local men together who were responsible for preventing crime and catching criminals in their area.
When crime occurred, people used hue and cry - literally shouting for help so neighbours would chase down criminals. Everyone was expected to drop what they were doing and join the pursuit, making law enforcement a community effort.
The most bizarre aspect was trial by ordeal, where suspects underwent painful tests like holding red-hot iron or being dunked in water. People believed God would protect the innocent and punish the guilty through these trials.
Quick Fact: Trial by ordeal was banned in 1215 when the Church decided it was too superstitious and unreliable for determining guilt.
Justice Systems and Church Protection
After 1215, trial by local jury replaced the dangerous ordeal system. Local people listened to both sides of the story and decided who was telling the truth - much more sensible than expecting divine intervention.
The Church offered two escape routes for criminals. Benefit of clergy allowed anyone who could read a Bible verse to avoid punishment, whilst church sanctuary gave criminals 40 days of protection to flee the country.
William I modernised the justice system by introducing key officials. Coroners investigated suspicious deaths, Justices of the Peace maintained order in communities, and parish constables volunteered to enforce local laws.
Remember: These new positions created the foundation of England's legal system that still exists today in modified forms.
Medieval Punishments and Fines
Medieval punishment focused on deterrence and retribution through three main types: capital, corporal, and humiliation punishments. Capital punishment meant execution, usually by beheading for serious crimes like treason.
Corporal punishment involved physical harm like maiming or castration, whilst humiliation punishments used public shaming through devices like stocks. These public displays warned others about the consequences of criminal behaviour.
The wergild system allowed criminals to pay fines instead of facing physical punishment, with amounts varying by the victim's social status. William ended this Anglo-Saxon tradition and introduced murdrum - a collective fine imposed on entire communities where Norman soldiers were killed.
Think About It: These harsh punishments reflected a society where maintaining order was more important than individual rights or rehabilitation.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Anglo-Saxon Crime and Punishment Revision Notes
Lillie-Mae Downing
@lilliemaedowning_qcfp
Medieval crime and punishment from 1000-1500 shows how society dealt with wrongdoers during the Anglo-Saxon and Norman periods. This era reveals fascinating methods of justice that seem quite strange by today's standards, from trial by ordeal to community-based law enforcement.
Crime Categories in Medieval England
Medieval society faced three main types of crime that threatened different aspects of daily life. Crimes against the person included serious offences like murder, assault, and public disorder that disrupted community peace.
Property crimes covered theft, arson, and the social crime of poaching - stealing animals from someone else's land. Poaching was particularly common because many people struggled to feed their families whilst wealthy landowners hoarded hunting rights.
When William the Conqueror arrived in 1066, he introduced new crimes to protect Norman interests. The Forest Laws made it illegal to hunt in royal forests without permission, turning traditional hunting into criminal activity overnight.
Key Point: William's new laws weren't just about justice - they were designed to control the Anglo-Saxon population and protect Norman soldiers from revenge attacks.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Community-Based Law Enforcement
Medieval communities had to police themselves since there was no organised police force. The tithing system grouped local men together who were responsible for preventing crime and catching criminals in their area.
When crime occurred, people used hue and cry - literally shouting for help so neighbours would chase down criminals. Everyone was expected to drop what they were doing and join the pursuit, making law enforcement a community effort.
The most bizarre aspect was trial by ordeal, where suspects underwent painful tests like holding red-hot iron or being dunked in water. People believed God would protect the innocent and punish the guilty through these trials.
Quick Fact: Trial by ordeal was banned in 1215 when the Church decided it was too superstitious and unreliable for determining guilt.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Justice Systems and Church Protection
After 1215, trial by local jury replaced the dangerous ordeal system. Local people listened to both sides of the story and decided who was telling the truth - much more sensible than expecting divine intervention.
The Church offered two escape routes for criminals. Benefit of clergy allowed anyone who could read a Bible verse to avoid punishment, whilst church sanctuary gave criminals 40 days of protection to flee the country.
William I modernised the justice system by introducing key officials. Coroners investigated suspicious deaths, Justices of the Peace maintained order in communities, and parish constables volunteered to enforce local laws.
Remember: These new positions created the foundation of England's legal system that still exists today in modified forms.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Medieval Punishments and Fines
Medieval punishment focused on deterrence and retribution through three main types: capital, corporal, and humiliation punishments. Capital punishment meant execution, usually by beheading for serious crimes like treason.
Corporal punishment involved physical harm like maiming or castration, whilst humiliation punishments used public shaming through devices like stocks. These public displays warned others about the consequences of criminal behaviour.
The wergild system allowed criminals to pay fines instead of facing physical punishment, with amounts varying by the victim's social status. William ended this Anglo-Saxon tradition and introduced murdrum - a collective fine imposed on entire communities where Norman soldiers were killed.
Think About It: These harsh punishments reflected a society where maintaining order was more important than individual rights or rehabilitation.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content: Medieval Law Enforcement
Most popular content in History
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user