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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
During the early medieval period, trial by ordeal was a common method of justice where the accused would undergo a physical test, believed to be divine intervention. If they were unharmed, it was seen as a sign of innocence, reflecting the strong connection between religion and law. However, as societal attitudes began shifting, this practice was increasingly viewed as barbaric and unreliable.
By the late medieval period, particularly post-1200, church reforms and the influence of canon law led to a decline in such practices. The establishment of more structured legal systems and reliance on evidence reduced the role of religious trials, marking a significant change.
Step 2
accusations of witchcraft
Answer
Accusations of witchcraft became prominent during the late medieval and early modern periods, particularly during the Reformation in the 16th and 17th centuries. Religious upheaval and a rise in superstition fueled paranoia about witchcraft, leading to widespread trials. In Protestant areas, witch hunts intensified, as religious authorities sought to root out perceived threats to the faith, often resulting in harsh penalties.
The shift from traditional religion-centric trials to state-sponsored witch hunts illustrates how religion influenced law enforcement, showcasing an era where belief in the supernatural was interwoven with legal practices.
Step 3
own information
Answer
Additionally, the emergence of Enlightenment thinking during the 18th century marked a further change, promoting rational inquiry over superstition. This led to legal reforms that minimized the religious influence on law, as Enlightenment philosophers advocated for reason and individuality. By the end of the 17th century, secular legal frameworks began to eclipse religious ones in many parts of Europe, highlighting a transformative shift in law enforcement influenced by the diminishing power of religious authorities.