The York Cycle and the Law
The York Cycle Passion sequence yields numerous references to fifteenth-century laws and the practice of law. The trial of Jesus is conducted using the language of contemporary English trials, and during the trial, Jesus is accused of such fifteenth-century crimes as witchcraft, defamation, preaching without a license, and high treason. Many scholars have studied the trial and Passion sequence, noting the references to contemporary law practice and debating how Jesus' trial follows or flouts the justice system. What has not yet been discussed thoroughly is the pervasive reference to law and law-breaking throughout the cycle as a whole. Throughout the Old Testament plays and the New Testament plays that precede the Passion sequence, characters are accused of English crimes from scolding to adultery to high treason. Furthermore, these crimes cut across jurisdictional boundaries, including deeds that would be tried before ecclesiastical courts, local law courts, and royal justices.This dissertation examines not only the trial and Passion sequence but also focuses on the more neglected legal aspects of the earlier plays. As stated above, the crimes described encompass many jurisdictions; what they also include is a genuine cross-section of contemporary English society. Peasant farmers (Adam and Eve) break their promise to their lord, middle-class wives scold their husbands (Noah and his wife), and Jesus, who is often depicted as royal, especially in "The Entry into Jerusalem," is put to death for crimes against the state. What seems true in all cases is that when God is involved directly in judgment, innocent parties are exonerated; however, when earthly justice comes into play, judgment is no longer impartial, fair, or correct. Attention to the many nuances of laws, judges, jurisdictions, and legal practices can profoundly alter our understanding of the York Cycle and its legal contexts.
Stats
Viewed 130 timesDownloaded 35 times