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Explain why there were changes in the way that religion affected law enforcement in the years c1000–c1700 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 4
Explain why there were changes in the way that religion affected law enforcement in the years c1000–c1700. You may use the following in your answer: - trial by ord... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain why there were changes in the way that religion affected law enforcement in the years c1000–c1700 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
trial by ordeal
Answer
Trial by ordeal was an ancient method of justice where the accused would be subjected to a physically dangerous task, with the belief that divine intervention would reveal the truth. In the early medieval period, this practice was prevalent as a means to determine guilt or innocence through what was seen as a sacred test. However, as society evolved, particularly by the late medieval period, skepticism about the fairness and reliability of such trials grew.
Religious reformers began to criticize trial by ordeal, believing it undermined moral and ethical judicial practices. By the 16th century, the decline of trial by ordeal was favored by authorities who sought a more rational legal system. This shift reflected a broader transformation in how religion influenced law enforcement, moving away from superstition towards more evidence-based approaches.
Step 2
accusations of witchcraft
Answer
The period from the 15th to the 17th century saw a significant increase in witchcraft accusations, fueled by religious tensions and societal fears. The Reformation and subsequent change in religious authority led to a period of persecution where individuals accused of witchcraft were often tried and executed. This era was marked by the belief that witches were in league with the devil, which was both a religious and a legal outrage.
Religious leaders played a key role in promoting these persecutions, believing it was their duty to eradicate evil. Such accusations led to the establishment of special courts and inquisitions aimed at rooting out supposed witchcraft, showcasing a direct correlation between religious doctrine and legal practices. The decline of these trials also indicates a notable shift in society's approach to law enforcement, as people began to question the legitimacy of accusations not grounded in solid evidence.
Step 3
use of information of your own
Answer
In addition to trial by ordeal and witchcraft accusations, other practices and beliefs also affected law enforcement during this period. For instance, the influence of the Church in civil matters remained strong, and clerical courts were often the first line of justice.
Furthermore, the Enlightenment period introduced new ideas about justice and rights, emphasizing the need for fair trials and evidence-based proceedings. This was a stark contrast to prior methods dominated by religious interpretation and fear. As the understanding of justice evolved, so too did the role of religion within the legal framework, leading to a more secular approach to law enforcement.