Early English Legal Literature

This collection features six chapters originally delivered as lectures at Cambridge, celebrating Frederic William Maitland's centenary. It aims to inspire a new generation by exploring his influential methods and legacy.

Early English Legal Literature is a collection of six chapters that were originally delivered as lectures at the University of Cambridge, marking the centenary of Frederic William Maitland's birth (1850–1906). The chapters aim to explore Maitland's significant contributions to legal scholarship, emphasizing not only the outcomes of his research but also the methodologies and inspirations that shaped his work. T. F. T. Plucknett, in his preface, highlights the importance of understanding Maitland's approach to legal literature, which has left a lasting impact on the field.

The lectures were first published in 1958 with the assistance of the Selden Society, with this volume serving as a reproduction of that edition. While the first chapter appears in this collection for the first time, the rest of the content reflects the insights and discussions that emerged from the original lectures. This revival of Maitland's work is intended to engage a new generation of scholars and enthusiasts, allowing them to appreciate the depth and relevance of his contributions to legal history and literature.

By commemorating Maitland's legacy, Early English Legal Literature not only honors his achievements but also encourages ongoing exploration and dialogue within the field of legal studies. The book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in the evolution of English legal thought and the foundational texts that have shaped contemporary understanding of law. Through this examination, readers are invited to reflect on the enduring influence of Maitland's ideas and the importance of historical context in legal scholarship.