How did the Anglo-Saxons bring about law and order to Britain? - Teacher's Notes

The Anglo-Saxons played a pivotal role in shaping the legal framework of Britain, with influences that extend into the present day. In the classroom, students are encouraged to explore the intricacies of law and order during the Anglo-Saxon era. This exploration begins with an examination of a BBC Bitesize resource on Crime and Punishment in Anglo-Saxon times, which provides a foundational understanding of the period's legal system. Students delve into the vocabulary of the time, learning terms such as 'wergild', a value placed on every person and piece of property, 'blood feuds', which were disputes settled by violence or compensation, and the social hierarchy that included 'thanes' (nobles), 'ceorls' (freemen), and slaves.

In their investigation, students consider how punishment varied based on an individual's social status, reflecting on the disparities in the treatment of thanes, ceorls, and slaves. They also study the position and rights of women under Anglo-Saxon law, gaining insight into gender dynamics within that society. Furthermore, the curriculum prompts students to trace the lineage of contemporary legal principles back to their Anglo-Saxon origins, identifying which aspects of modern law can be attributed to this early medieval period. Through this historical inquiry, students gain a deeper understanding of the continuity and evolution of legal systems from the past to the present.