1. Classification of Crimes:
- In both eras, crimes can broadly fall into categories such as theft, murder, assault, and treason.
- Each crime carries varying degees of severity and intent, which influences the punishment.
2. Deterrent and Retributive Purpose:
- Historically, punishment served as a deterrent to prevent crime and seek retribution for the victim.
- Today, the criminal justice systems aims to balamce deterrence, protection of society, and rehabilitation of offenders.
3. Sentencing Guidelines:
- In medieval times, sentencing guidelines could be strict and harsh, including capital punishment for certain crimes.
- Modern criminal justice systems also have sentencing guidelines that determine appropriate punishment based on the crime and mitigating circumstances.
4. Incarceration and Confinement:
- Both medieval and contemporary societies use incarceration as a common form of punishment.
- Medieval society had prisons, while today's correctional facilities include jails and prison for different severity of crimes.
5. Corporal Punishment:
- In medieval times, corporal punishment, such as flogging or cutting off bodily parts, was common.
- Although the practice has largely been abolished in modern society, some jurisdictions still enforce corporal punishment in specific cases.
6. Social Stigma:
- Conviction of a crime in medieval times often led to social stigma and exclusion.
- Today, criminal records and convictions can also impose social stigma in terms of employment, housing, and reputation.
7. Reform and Rehabilitaiton:
- Though not a significant focus in medieval times, modern criminal justice systems place emphasizes on rehabilitation and reintegrating offenders into society.
. Legal Representation and Due Process;
- While legal representation in medieval times was scarce or limited, modern criminal justice systems provide access to defense counsel, ensuring due process and fair trials.
9. Juvenille Justice:
- Both eras recognized differences between adult and juvenile offenders.
- In medieval times, juvenile offenders recieved reduced punishment or were handled separately.
- Today's juvenile justice system are designed to accomodate the unique needs and circumstances of young offenders.
10. Evolution Over time:
- Both medieval and modern crime and punishment have evolved over time, influenced by societal changes, legal reforms, and shifting moral beliefs.
It's important to note that while there are similarities, the medieval and contemporary criminal justice systems differ significantly in terms of philosophies, procedures, and treatment of offenders. Modern societies strive for a more balanced approach that emphasizes justice, rehabilitation, and the protection of individual rights.