In this article, we’ll explore ten ridiculous medieval laws that continue to exist in modern legal codes.
In medieval Europe, the act of throwing cats out of windows was considered an offense. This law was introduced to prevent the “evil spirits” that were believed to possess cats from entering the home. While it’s unlikely that anyone is prosecuted for defenestrating a cat today, such laws can still be found in some places.
Medieval England had a law banning the consumption of pies on Christmas Day, as it was seen as a pagan tradition. Although not enforced today, the law is still technically in effect in the UK.
Curfew laws, which required people to be indoors after a certain hour, were common in medieval Europe as a way to maintain order. Today, some places still have curfew laws, primarily for minors, to protect their safety and well-being.
Medieval witchcraft laws remain on the books in some places, despite being rarely enforced. These laws were once used to persecute individuals believed to be practicing witchcraft. Modern interpretations of these laws vary, with some countries still having anti-witchcraft laws on the books.
In medieval Europe, dueling was a common method of resolving disputes. While the practice has mostly disappeared, some jurisdictions still have laws against dueling, even though it’s no longer a prevalent issue.
Sumptuary laws regulated what people could wear based on their social status. Although these laws have largely disappeared, some vestiges of them can still be found in modern dress codes and school uniforms.
Medieval England had laws against extravagant meals. Today, these are reflected in health regulations and food safety laws, though they are rarely enforced for such reasons.
In medieval France, gingerbread was banned because it was associated with pagan rituals. While the ban has been lifted, some historical laws related to food preparation are still in place for safety and hygiene reasons.
Medieval laws regulated bathhouses to prevent immoral behavior. While bathhouses have largely transformed into modern spas, some legal remnants still exist regarding their operation and licensing.
In medieval times, debasing currency or clipping coins was a crime. While the specifics have changed, modern countries still have laws to maintain the integrity of their currency.
Medieval laws often reflect the values and superstitions of their time. While many of these laws are no longer enforced, they continue to exist in some form or another, often serving as historical oddities rather than serious legal matters.
The persistence of these laws in the modern era reminds us of the fascinating intersection between history and contemporary legal systems.