Understanding Brehan Law

Brehan Law, the legal system governing Ireland during the Middle Ages, emerged as a complex and hierarchical system predominantly focused on civil matters. Originating in the 7th and 8th centuries, it established laws that varied significantly based on the social status of individuals, meaning penalties were not equal for all offenders. Judges traversed the land to enforce these laws uniformly, which was unusual in a tightly-knit rural society. The system's historical context highlights its evolution, with the available legal texts illustrating a sophisticated understanding of law that adapted to societal changes over time.