Reason and fairness. Constituting justice in Europe, from medieval canon law to ECHR

Abstract

local concerns, and could only translate with difficulty to first an imperial republic, and second an extensive empire. These criticisms should not detract from what is an impressive volume. I use them only to highlight the inherent issues that are true of any history attempted on this scale. This remains a work of tremendous worth. Vast in scope and ambition, guided by an inquiring mind, this is a deeply enjoyable and thought-provoking book. May takes a vast assortment of different legal traditions, ideas and sources, and demonstrates the benefits of comparative history. It is then best judged not on the intricacies of each chapter; but rather the overarching ambition and ability to draw out comparisons between such different experiences of law; in thought, action and deed.