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TheBeefofLove t1_j14pbc6 wrote

My request

I’m looking for recommendations on medieval law. Specifically the idea of trials by ordeal or trials by combat. I was recently reading about the trial of Emma of Normandy who was accused of having engaged in sexual relations with Bishop Elfwine of Winchester. Emma insisted she was innocent, and she was willing undergo the ordeal of hot iron to prove it. I also recently watched the film The Last Duel which is about the last legal trial by combat held in France between Jean de Carrouges and Jacques Le Gris. These have sparked a strong curiosity in these medieval law practices.

My recommendation

I’ve been listening to The Great Trials of World History and the Lessons They Teach Us by Professor Douglas O. Linder of the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law.

It’s incredibly engaging so far. It examines famous trials throughout all points in history and analyzes why they are important for study. It’s covers trials such as the trial of Socrates in Ancient Greece, the Salem Witch trials, the Amistad trials, even the OJ Simpson trial and many more.

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ideonode t1_j1jrhdv wrote

Have you read The Last Duel by Eric Jager? It's the book on which the film was based. I preferred the book, as it provides more context than the film.

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