Crime and Punishment - Medieval, c.1000-1500 Flashcards
What were the four types of crime that existed since the Anglo-Saxon period (c.1000-1066)?
- Crimes against the person
- Crimes against the property
- Crimes against authority
- “Moral” crimes
Which crimes were introduced in the Norman era (c.1066-1154)?
- “Killing a Norman”
- The Forest Laws
- ‘Social’ crimes, such as poaching
Which crimes were introduced in the Medieval era (c.1154-1500)?
- High Treason. Kings felt more challenged by their people and parliaments
- Heresy
- Statute of Labourers
When were laws against heresy imposed?
The Medieval era - 1382, 1401, 1414
When was the Statute of Labourers passed? What was it and why was it introduced?
- This prevented workers from asking their masters for higher wages and moving to a new area to look for work.
At the time of this law being passed, the Black Death had wiped out a large proportion of the population (30-50%), and so the lower classes were able to ask for higher wages or threaten to work for another master (as they were in need for workers, as many had died).
What were the two main types of trial in Anglo-Saxon England?
- Trial by local jury
2. Trial by ordeal
Trials in Norman England?
Trial by local jury
Trial by ordeal
Trial by combat
Trials in Medieval England?
Trial by local jury
Trial by combat
What was trial by local jury?
A trial where the criminal would be brought in front of a jury of local men which knew both them as well as the accuser. The jury would hear the story of both the accuser and the accused, and then come to a verdict of innocence or guilt. If guilty, they decided the punishment
What was trial by ordeal? An example?
A religious way to see if someone was guilty. The person would have to complete an ordeal, and innocence or guilt would be determined by a certain factor. E.g. trial by cold water (someone would be chucked into a pond or lake. The water represented purity; the innocent would be accepted and drown, whilst the guilty would float)
What was trial by battle?
The accuser and the accused would fight until one gave in. The person defeated would usually be hanged
How were criminals caught in Anglo-Saxon England?
- Parish constable / shire reeve
- Hue + Cry
- Tithing
How were criminals caught in Norman England?
Same as Anglo-Saxon England
======= 1. Sheriff (as opposed to constable - same thing, but more important role) 2. Hue + Cry 3. Tithing =======
Medieval law enforcement
Travelling justices
Justice of the peace
County coroner
The posse
Town watchmen
Who was the shire reeve / parish constable?
Anglo-Saxon England
A local official appointed from the community who had the responsibility of carrying out judgements made by the local community
