Explore crime and law enforcement in early modern England through this 47-minute lecture from Yale University's course on Tudor and Stuart society. Examine the prevalence of violent and property crimes, regional variations in criminal activity, and the justice system's approach to prosecution and punishment. Analyze the peak in criminal cases during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, and consider the balance between harsh penalties and discretionary mercy in the legal system. Investigate theories on the use of exemplary punishment as a deterrent and evaluate its effectiveness in maintaining social order. Gain insights into how crime and law shaped politics, religion, and society in this pivotal period of English history.

Syllabus

- Chapter 1. The Question of Violence
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- Chapter 2. Examples
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- Chapter 3. Responses
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- Chapter 4. Homicide
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- Chapter 5. Property Crime: Capital and Non-capital, Clergyable and Non-clergyable
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- Chapter 6. Incidences
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- Chapter 7. Responses
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Taught by

YaleCourses

Reviews

3.7 rating, based on 3 Class Central reviews

Start your review of Crime and Law in Early Modern England - Politics, Religion, and Society under the Tudors and Stuarts

Axl Ron Capulong

The lectures are well-structured, weaving together historical narrative with critical analysis. Key themes include the evolution of common law, the role of religion in shaping legal norms, and the ways in which political authority sought to regulate society through courts and punishments. Case studies—ranging from witchcraft trials to political dissent—bring abstract concepts to life, illustrating how ordinary people experienced justice and authority.
Anonymous

This course, Crime and Law in Early Modern England by Yale University, offers a fascinating glimpse into the legal and social fabric of Tudor and Stuart England. Professor Keith Wrightson’s lectures are insightful, engaging, and rich with historical…

This course, Crime and Law in Early Modern England by Yale University, offers a fascinating glimpse into the legal and social fabric of Tudor and Stuart England. Professor Keith Wrightson’s lectures are insightful, engaging, and rich with historical detail. He explains how crime, punishment, and justice were deeply influenced by class, religion, and power dynamics of the time. The content is well-structured and accessible even to those without a background in history. Watching it on YouTube makes world-class education freely available, which is a huge plus. The only drawback is the lack of interactive elements, as it’s a recorded lecture series. Overall, it’s an enriching experience for anyone curious about early modern law, society, and the roots of the modern legal system.
Hirwa Jimmy

It's very good!
video are teachable and well understandable Teacher with best english accent where all people from English word can hear.

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