Middle Ages Flashcards
What were three major crimes committed in this period?
Theft, murder and insults.
How many people were in a tithing and over what age did they have to be?
10 people with men over the age of 12
What was raised when a thief was loose? What happened if you ignored this?
Hue and Cry. You would have to pay a fine
What were the two types of trial?
Trial by local jury and trial by ordeal
Who were the jury made up of?
People who knew the accused and people who did not.
What would happen if there was no clear evidence?
The jury would choose based on who they knew best and looked most honest.
What was the oath that the accused would take called?
Compurgation
What 3 things are always a part of trials by ordeal?
- Priest is always present
- Must fast for 3 days
- Mass is heard
Who takes part in the hot iron trial?
Women
What happens in the hot iron trial?
They walk 3 paces and if the wound is festering after 3 days, they are guilty.
Who takes part in the blessed bread trials?
Priests
What happens in the blessed bread trial?
The priest prays whilst eating bread. If guilty, they will choke.
Who takes part in the hot water trial?
Men
What happens in the hot water trial?
An object is placed in hot water, which they have to pick up. If wound is festering after 3 days, they are guilty
Who takes part in the cold water trial?
Men
What happens in the cold water trial?
They are lowered into water and if they sink, they are innocent.
What is Wergild?
Compensation to victims
What was the price for killing a noble and killing a freeman?
300s and 100s
What was the price for losing an eye and breaking an arm?
50s and 6s
What crime was capital punishment primarily used for?
Treason
What is corporal punishment and who was it used for?
Physical punishment for re-offenders
What was blood feud?
Previously, you could kill the murderer who had killed a relative.
What are the four types of court?
- Private courts
- Hundred courts
- Shire courts
- Royal Courts
In what case were private courts held and by who?
Local rules broken and held by a landowner
How many tithings took part in a Hundred court, how often did it occur and what type of cases was it for?
10 tithings, 1 once a month and for less serious cases
How often were shire courts held and by who?
Twice a year by noblemen
What cases did royal courts concern and who was it held by?
Serious crimes held by royal judges
