Henry Maine’s Ancient Law as an Expression of Victorian Humanism

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Paul J. du Plessis (Professor of Roman law in the School of Law, University of Edinburgh)

Henry Maine’s Ancient Law as an Expression of Victorian Humanism

Paul J. du Plessis (Professor of Roman law in the School of Law, University of Edinburgh)

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English

Edinburgh University Press
30 September 2025

History of ideas; Jurisprudence & philosophy of law; Roman law; Comparative law; Legal history

This monograph offers a comprehensive contextual analysis of Maine's Ancient Law, emphasising the author's use of various sources to construct the book's key themes. Ancient Law was written as a sophisticated piece of rhetorical prose grounded in Maine's education in the classics. Central to this analysis is the significant role of Roman law in shaping the narrative, particularly its influence on Maine's arguments and conclusions.

The monograph also positions Maine's work within the broader intellectual debates of the nineteenth century, especially concerning the teaching of English law and Britain's colonial presence in India. By situating Maine's Ancient Law within this larger context, the study enhances our understanding of the text, revealing the historical legal framework that resonates in modern legal discourse and thought. This connection enriches our knowledge of Maine's contributions and highlights the enduring relevance of his ideas.

By: Paul J. du Plessis (Professor of Roman law in the School of Law University of Edinburgh)
Imprint: Edinburgh University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm,
ISBN: 9781399550628
ISBN 10: 1399550624
Pages: 200
Publication Date: 30 September 2025
Audience: College/higher education , Further / Higher Education
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active

Paul J. du Plessis is Professor of Roman Law at the University of Edinburgh