Abstract：After the Norman Conquest of 1066, William I introduced the French judicial duel to England in order to consolidate the newly established rule and resolve violent conflicts and land disputes within local societies. Subsequently, English kings continuously localized the practice, adapting it effectively to the feudal landholding system to meet local demands for fairness and justice. As English society evolved in the 13th century, judicial duels were increasingly challenged by the emerging jury system. Eventually, judicial duels declined in the 14th century, though they persisted in some form into modern English society. By examining the unique evolutionary process and operational mechanisms of judicial duels in medieval England, it becomes clear that their survival was the result of multiple social factors interacting. This also provides unique historical insights into the rise of the jury system.

Key words：medieval ; England ; judicial duel ; jury

Published on Journal of Hangzhou Dianzi University(Social Sciences), Issue 1, 2025.