Sir Henry James Sumner Maine was an English comparative jurist and historian. He is renowned for his thesis in Ancient Law, which posits that law and society evolved from 'status to contract.' This theory suggests that ancient societies rigidly bound individuals by status to familial or social groups, whereas modern societies recognize individuals as autonomous agents free to enter contracts and form associations. Maine's work is thus considered foundational to the modern sociology of law.
Preface Introduction Ancient codes Legal fictions Law of nature & equity The modern history of the law of nature Primitive society & ancient law The early history of testamentary succession Ancient & modern ideas respecting wills & successions The early history of property The early history of contract The early history of delict & crime Index