Law and History

Along a path of continuity with the mediaeval period, legal traditions in the early modern age, both in continental Europe and on the common law islands, were characterised by certain fundamental features. Although the passage of time has blurred the details of developments that took place over several centuries, some common aspects are apparent from the sources. These include multilingualism, a plurality of sources of law, the way in which judicial authority was exercised and judicial protection for rights. Over the course of three centuries, from the late 15th century until the end of the 18th century, linguistic and legal aspects intersected with one another within the patchwork of applicable laws, moulding the legal cultures of early modern Europe. Considered from a long-term perspective, the technical lexicon and language, the powers of the sovereign, the voices of subjects and justice appear as the founding moments of a civilisation, above all if considered in relation to 18th century reforms and their outcomes.

The course will examine the following topics:
- Languages of the Law in Europe
- Justice, judges and judiciary in early modern Europe
- Crimes and punishments
- 18th century debates on criminal justice