Legal Definitions - futhwite

Historically, a futhwite was a financial penalty or fine imposed for engaging in a fight or disturbing the public peace.

• Example 1: In a bustling medieval market, two rival traders get into a heated argument that quickly escalates into a physical brawl, overturning stalls and causing panic among shoppers. The local constable intervenes, separates the combatants, and levies a fine against both individuals for their public disturbance.

  Explanation: This scenario illustrates a futhwite because it involves a physical fight in a public place that disrupts the peace, resulting in a financial penalty imposed by an authority.

• Example 2: During a village feast, a group of revelers becomes excessively rowdy, shouting loudly, breaking minor items, and refusing to quiet down despite requests from other villagers. The village elder, acting as a local magistrate, imposes a monetary penalty on the group for their disruptive behavior that disturbed the community's tranquility.

  Explanation: Here, the boisterous and destructive behavior constitutes a breach of the public peace, and the fine assessed by the elder would be considered a futhwite.

• Example 3: At a public assembly in a historical town, an individual, disagreeing with a speaker, begins shouting insults and attempts to incite a riot among the crowd, creating significant disorder and fear. The town's bailiff quickly apprehends the individual and orders them to pay a fine for their actions in breaking the peace and attempting to cause widespread disturbance.

  Explanation: This example demonstrates a futhwite as it involves an act designed to disrupt public order and peace, leading to a financial punishment for the offender.