Legal Definitions - ingratus

The term ingratus, originating from Roman law, refers to a person who is ungrateful, or to conduct that demonstrates a lack of gratitude. In ancient Rome, acts of ingratitude, especially by someone who had received significant benefits or favors from another, could have serious legal repercussions, potentially leading to a reversal of their improved status or privileges.

• Example 1: Patronage and Betrayal

  A wealthy Roman senator (the patron) generously funded the education and career of a promising young orator, helping him rise to a position of influence and wealth. Later, when the senator faced political opposition and accusations, the orator, instead of defending his benefactor, publicly sided with the senator's rivals and spread rumors damaging to the senator's reputation and political standing.

  This illustrates ingratus conduct because the orator, having received substantial support and opportunity that elevated his status, acted in a manner that directly harmed his benefactor. In Roman law, such an act of profound ingratitude could have potentially led to the orator losing his acquired status or facing other penalties.

• Example 2: Freedom and Disloyalty

  A master, out of benevolence, granted freedom to a slave, along with a plot of land and funds to start a new life as a freedman. Shortly after gaining this immense gift of freedom, the freedman conspired with a rival family to steal valuable livestock and destroy crops from his former master's estate, causing significant financial loss.

  This scenario exemplifies ingratus behavior. The freedman, having been given the immense gift of freedom and resources, responded with a direct act of betrayal and theft against the very person who elevated his status. Under Roman law, such extreme ingratitude could have resulted in the revocation of his freedom and a return to servitude.

• Example 3: Adoption and Disinheritance

  A childless Roman couple adopted an orphan, providing him with their family name, inheritance rights, and all the privileges and social standing of a legitimate son. Years later, the adopted son, without provocation, publicly disowned his adoptive parents, denied their generosity, and attempted to seize family assets before their death, claiming they were incompetent to manage their own affairs.

  This demonstrates ingratus conduct on the part of the adopted son. Despite receiving the profound benefit of family, status, and inheritance, he acted with extreme disrespect and attempted to harm his benefactors. In Roman legal tradition, such an act of ingratitude could have been grounds for disinheritance or other severe legal consequences, as it violated the fundamental duties expected of an adopted child.