This unique publication outlines the development of legal theory from pre-Roman times to the twentieth century. It aims to relate the evolution of legal theory to parallel developments in political history, and accordingly offers the reader an account of relevant contemporaneous political, religious, and economic events. Each chapter commences with a general historical background for the relevant period, and discusses how political events and political and legal theory are both related to one another and occasionally influence one another. No other English publication aims to anchor legal theory to contemporary general history in this way, shunning the more conventional approach to legal theory via the study of 'traditions' or 'schools', and it is hoped that this study will provide a much-needed basic text for students of jurisprudence, legal theory and politics.

The Greeks; The Romans; The Early Middle Ages (to 1100); The High Middle Ages (1100-1350); Renaissance and Reformation (1350-1600); The Seventeenth Century; The Eighteenth Century; The Nineteenth Century; The Earlier Twentieth Century; The Later Twentieth Century; Index.

J. M. Kelly , late Professor of Jurisprudence and Roman Law, University College, Dublin

`John Kelly's calm, orderly presentation ... erudite and clear ... Kelly's text is excellent in its unpretentious, deceptively casual linking of legal ideas with religious, political and intellectual history. Written in a flowing but cibcuse style and rich in reference, it wears its considerable learning lightly and is likely to appeal to students as a wide ranging but not intimidating text ... a concise and eloquent reminder that the heritage of Western legal speculation over the centuries is a most important component and mirror of wider culture. As such it can be widely recommended.' Roger Cotterrell, Times Higher Education Supplement |d 03/08/1992