Histories of Crime

'I can think of no better introduction to the history of crime and punishment in Britain. The clearly-written essays and evocative case studies contained in this volume will quickly become an indispensable guide to students and academics alike who seek a timely introduction to the subject.' - Stephen A. Toth, Associate Professor of Modern European History, Arizona State University 'An excellent collection of essays by key scholars in the field and a great resource for students seeking to understand the context in which crimes, policing and punishment are historically understood and researched.' - Helen Johnston, Co-Director of the Centre for Criminology& Criminal Justice, University of Hull

Providing a rounded and coherent history of crime and the law spanning the past 400 years, Histories of Crime explores the evolution of attitudes towards crime and criminality over time.
Providing a rounded and coherent history of crime and the law spanning the past 400 years, Histories of Crime explores the evolution of attitudes towards crime and criminality over time. Bringing together contributions from internationally acknowledged
experts, the book highlights themes, current issues and key debates in the history of deviance and bad behaviour, including:

? marital cruelty and adultery
? infanticide
? murder
? the underworld
? blasphemy and moral crimes
? fraud and white-collar crime
? the death penalty and punishment.

Individual case studies of violent and non-violent crime are used to explore the human means and motives behind criminal practice. Through these, the book illuminates society's wider attitudes and fears about criminal behaviour and the way in which these influence the law and legal system over time. This fascinating book is essential reading for students and teachers of history, sociology and criminology, as well as anyone interested in Britain's criminal past.