Later Middle Ages Crime and Punishment Flashcards
Who introduced most Changes in Crime and Punishment in the Late Middle Ages?
King Henry II
What did Henry do when there became more opportunity for crime in towns than villages due to population increases?
A more centralised approach was used and the role of government increased, there was a shift away from local communities and a shift towards a system where crime was dealt with by government appointed officials, because they were appointed centrally, similar methods started popping up in other areas
What happened for less serious crimes?
Elements of Anglo Saxon practices continued at a local level
What was the definition of Parliament at the time?
A gathering of powerful individuals who met with the king to discuss and introduce new laws
What was the Statute of Labourers?
It made asking for higher wages a crime and introduced a maximum wage. It also made it illegal to move elsewhere to look for better paid work
Why and When was the Statute of Labourers introduced?
After the Black Death in 1348, many workers (peasants) had died. With less workers available, living workers asked for higher wages for work. The statute was passed in 1351
What was Heresy?
Holding a set of beliefs different to those of the established religion of the time
When were Laws against Heresy Introduced and what did they all do?
The laws were passed in 1382, 1401 and 1414. The laws in 1401 introduced burning heretics at the stake, and the laws in 1414 gave justices of the peace the power to arrest suspected heretics
Why were the Heresy Laws introduced?
In the 13th and 14th century, a small group of people (lollards) started questioning the practices and beliefs of the Christian Church. They wanted the Church to be reformed and for the bible to be translated into English so people could understand it
What stayed the same from Anglo Saxon/ Norman Law enforcement?
Hue and cry was kept with slight changes
What changed from Anglo Saxon/Norman Law enforcement?
Towns were subdivided into wards and two new official roles were introduced
What new roles were introduced and when?
Coroners introduced in 1194, Justices of the Peace in 1195
What were coroners?
They dealt with situations where there was a suspicious death
What were justices of the peace?
They were keepers of the king’s peace in areas seen as unruly
What new punishment was introduced and what was it used to punish?
Being hung, drawn and quartered and it was used in cases of high treason
