Forgers of Law and Their Readers: The Crafting of English Political Identities between the Norman Conquest and the Magna Carta
Bruce R. O'Brien
A short time after 1206 and before 1215, a Londoner assembled massive collection of older near contemporary English laws, called the Leges Anglorum by historians, inserted long interpolations spurious codes that enunciated many principles guided baronial opposition to King John later became part Magna Carta. To those familiar with struggle leading up creation Carta, these should cause no surprise. These ancient laws were made proclaim “in kingdom right justice ought reign more than perverse will” (ECf4, 11.1.A.6; Liebermann 1903, 635). In another collection, Arthur, making his first appearance in law, is credited establishing as law requirement all nobles, knights, freemen whole Britain swear “to defend against foreigners enemies” 32.A.5–7; 655). More surprising attribution regularly Hustings court London Trojans (who Britons). The seventh-century West Saxon king, Ine, suddenly looms large ranks Britain's lawmakers; he not only reigns for good all, but also given lordly virtues twelfth-century chivalric romance: “generous, wise, prudent, moderate, strong, just, spirited, warlike” (as was appropriate place) 32.C.2, 32.C.8; 658–59). confection bits other attributed here Alfred, orders an end vice, national education freemen, unity “as if sworn brothers utility kingdom” (Leges Angl, Pseudo-Alfred 1–6; 1894, 19–20). Finally, grandest statement political ambition, Arthur appears again great conqueror, whose spirit satisfied alone: “Courageously speedily subjugated Scandinavia, which now Norway, islands beyond, namely Iceland Greenland, belong Sweden, Ireland, Gotland, Denmark, Samland, Vinland, Curland, Runoe, Finland, Wirland, Estland, Karelien,Lapland, lands eastern Ocean far Russia” 32.E; 659).
PS Political Science & Politics