[The Danish History Books I-IX by Saxo Grammaticus (Saxo the Learned)]@TWC D-Link bookThe Danish History Books I-IX INTRODUCTION 56/114
Homod and Thole v.
Beorn and Thore, by challenge.Ref.v.Gaut, on challenge.
Ragnar and three sons v.
Starcad of Sweden and seven sons, on challenge. CIVIL PROCEDURE.--"Oaths" are an important art of early procedure, and noticed by Saxo; one calling the gods to witness and therefor, it is understood, to avenge perjury if he spake not truth. "Testification", or calling witnesses to prove the steps of a legal action, was known, "Glum's Saga" and "Landnamaboc", and when a manslayer proceeded (in order to clear himself of murder) to announce the manslaughter as his act, he brings the dead man's head as his proof, exactly as the hero in the folk-tales brings the dragon's head or tongue as his voucher. A "will" is spoken of.
This seems to be the solemn declaration of a childless man to his kinsfolk, recommending some person as his successor.
<<Back Index Next>> D-Link book Top TWC mobile books
|