Legal Definitions - medianus homo

The term medianus homo, originating from Latin, historically referred to an individual of moderate means or "middle fortune." This concept was used in historical legal and social contexts to describe someone who was neither exceptionally wealthy nor impoverished. Instead, a medianus homo possessed sufficient resources to be self-sustaining, often owning property or having a stable trade, placing them in a social stratum above the very poor but below the aristocracy or the extremely rich.

• Example 1: Jury Selection in Medieval Courts

  In medieval England, when a local court needed to select jurors for a trial, they often sought individuals who fit the description of a medianus homo. They would not typically choose landless peasants, who might lack the independence or understanding of property disputes, nor powerful lords whose influence could unduly sway proceedings. Instead, the court would prefer stable farmers, master craftsmen, or small landowners who possessed a certain level of property and standing in the community, indicating their reliability and a vested interest in justice.

  This example illustrates how a medianus homo was considered suitable for civic duties like jury service due to their moderate wealth and stable position, which implied independence and responsibility.

• Example 2: Eligibility for Guild Membership or Local Office

  Consider a medieval town where a skilled artisan wishes to join a prestigious merchant guild or run for a position on the town council. To ensure the stability and commitment of its members or officials, the guild or town might implicitly or explicitly require candidates to be a medianus homo. This would mean they owned their workshop, had an established trade, and possessed a certain level of assets, demonstrating they were not transient or dependent. This status ensured they had a vested interest in the community's welfare and the guild's reputation, distinguishing them from those with no property or those of immense wealth who might have different priorities.

  Here, the term highlights the social and economic prerequisites for participation in important community institutions, where moderate wealth signified reliability and a stake in local affairs.

• Example 3: Military Service in a Local Militia

  In a historical community needing to raise a local militia for defense against bandits or invaders, the call for service might primarily target the medianus homo. These individuals were typically expected to provide their own basic equipment, such as a spear, shield, or simple armor, and had enough stability in their livelihood that a temporary absence from their farm or trade would not lead to destitution for their family. This distinguished them from the very poor, who could not afford equipment, and the very rich, who might employ professional soldiers or be exempt from such direct service.

  This example demonstrates how the concept of medianus homo could define a class of citizens capable of fulfilling military obligations, possessing the necessary resources and stability to contribute to community defense.