HIST273

Constitutionalism, or the representative system of centralized government, is a major legacy of the Middle Ages. The course examines the evolution of this system of government through an analysis of the origins, development, and interaction of three distinct conceptual and practical bases of law in medieval society. These traditions include Germanic custom and feudal practices, canon law, and the 12th century revival of Roman law. Readings are drawn from original sources reflecting these traditions and include Tacitus' "Germania," selected documents from barbarian codes, selected feudal contracts, Gratian's "Decretum," Magna Carta, Bracton's "English Customs and Law," and Aquinas' "Treatise on Law." Required for Law and Society major.