Ancient law
Ancient Law, published in 1861, is Sir Henry Sumner Maine's study of the early history of legal ideas and their relation to modern thought, here in an edition with an introduction by J. H. Morgan. Drawing on Roman law above all, and on comparisons with Hindu and early European custom, Maine examines ancient codes, legal fictions, equity and the law of nature, then traces the early history of wills and succession, property, contract, and crime. His best-known conclusion is that progressive societies have moved from status to contract, from obligations fixed by family position to those freely agreed by individuals. The book helped found the comparative and historical study of law and society. The full text is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, and the first chapter is free.
Start reading right away, without signing up. The complete text is included in Vinteuil Reading, or yours forever with a one-time purchase.
Frequently asked questions about Ancient law
Ancient law by Sir Henry Sumner Maine can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read Ancient law online?
Yes. Ancient law opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is Ancient law free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of Ancient law is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is Ancient law in the public domain?
Yes. Ancient law by Sir Henry Sumner Maine is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read Ancient law?
About 6 h 34 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is Ancient law?
Ancient law by Sir Henry Sumner Maine is filed under "History" in the Vinteuil library.
