Description
Book SynopsisBrings to life a thousand years of Roman history through sixteen studies of famous court cases - from the legendary trial of Horatius for the killing of his sister, to the trial of Jesus Christ, to that of the Christian leader Priscillian for heresy. It illuminates how ancient legal practices affect how the law is implemented.
Trade Review"[Liebs's book] will be welcomed by both novice and expert students of law and society... Entertaining yet profound... Highly recommended." -- P. Lorenzini, Saint Xavier University Choice "Liebs provides an interesting mixture of detailed examination of several legal problems and consideration of more broadly conceived legal change over time." Bryn Mawr Classical Review (BMCR)
Table of ContentsPreface Introduction 1. Killing a Sister for Mourning a Fallen Enemy 2. Temporary End to Trials Involving Black Magic 3. A Dowry Hunter Loses Out 4. A Naive Buyer 5. The Party's Intention vs. the Pedantry of Jurists? 6. Cicero Thwarts the Intrigue of a Powerful Man 7. Defense against a Lover's Malice 8. Corrupter of Morals through Poetry, or Accessory to a Conspiracy? 9. A Precautionary Crucifixion 1. "They Hate Mankind" 11. A Criminal Organization? 12. Brutal Slave Owners 13. Self-Help Is Punished 14. Protecting a Ward Prevails over Standard Payment Practices 15. A Dispute among Christians 16. The Execution of Heretics Conclusion Notes Index
