Anglo Saxon England

Why did towns like York (Eoforwic) and London (Lundenwic) have more crime?

More goods and money to steal, and people didn’t know each other as well.

What were crimes against authority in Anglo-Saxon England?

Crimes threatening the social structure (e.g. serf attacking a noble).

What was the worst crime against authority?

Treason – betraying the King.

What were moral crimes?

Actions against religious beliefs (e.g. sex outside marriage).

Who made the laws in Anglo-Saxon England?

The King and nobility.

What role did communities and families play in law enforcement?

They helped enforce the law at a local level.

Who was King of England from 978–1016?

King Ethelred II.

What was the ‘King’s peace’?

The King’s duty to maintain law and order so people could live safely.

What were codes of law?

Formal laws issued by Anglo-Saxon kings.

What were tithings?

Groups of 10 men responsible for each other’s behaviour.

What was the role of the shire reeve?

A local official who carried out the King’s law in each shire.

What was the hue and cry?

A call for help when a crime was seen – everyone had to join the chase.

What was trial by ordeal?

A religious trial asking God to judge guilt (e.g. hot iron or cold water tests).

What was maiming, and who encouraged it?

Causing physical harm (e.g. cutting off an ear); advised by the Church.

What was wergild?

A fine paid to a victim’s family for murder, based on social status.

Which crimes were punished by execution (usually hanging)?

Treason and arson.

What were stocks or the pillory used for?

Public punishments for assault or disorder.

How was theft punished in Anglo-Saxon England?

Usually by fines.

Who increasingly decided punishments over time?

The King rather than local communities.

Why did punishments increase in this period?

To make the King’s power more visible across the land.