| Justice and Mercy: Moral Theology and the Exercise of Law in Twelfth-Century England Contributor(s): Byrne, Philippa (Author) |
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ISBN: 152612534X ISBN-13: 9781526125347 Publisher: Manchester University Press OUR PRICE: $123.50 Product Type: Hardcover - Other Formats Published: November 2018 |
| Additional Information |
| BISAC Categories: - History | Europe - Medieval - Law | Legal History - Religion | Christian Theology - Ethics |
| Series: Artes Liberales |
| Physical Information: 0.81" H x 5.5" W x 8.5" (1.18 lbs) 304 pages |
| Themes: - Chronological Period - Medieval (500-1453) - Religious Orientation - Christian |
| Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
| Publisher Description: This book examines one of the most fundamental issues in twelfth-century English politics: justice. It demonstrates that during the foundational period for the common law, the question of judgement and judicial ethics was a topic of heated debate a common problem with multiple different answers. How to be a judge, and how to judge well, was a concern shared by humble and high, keeping both kings and parish priests awake at night. Using theological texts, sermons, legal treatises and letter collections, the book explores how moralists attempted to provide guidance for uncertain judges. It argues that mercy was always the most difficult challenge for a judge, fitting uncomfortably within the law and of disputed value. Shining a new light on English legal history, Justice and mercy reveals the moral dilemmas created by the establishment of the common law. |
