Legal Definitions - morgangiva

morgangiva

A morgangiva was a historical practice, primarily in medieval European societies, where a husband would present a gift to his new wife on the morning following their wedding night. This gift was distinct from a dowry, which was typically brought by the bride to the marriage, or a dower, which was a provision for the wife from her husband's property in case of his death. Instead, the morgangiva was a personal gift, often symbolic of the husband's appreciation and commitment, and it became the wife's independent property.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of a morgangiva:

• Example 1: The Feudal Lord's Gift
  In 12th-century England, Lord Alaric, a wealthy landowner, marries Lady Isolde. On the morning after their wedding, he gifts her a small but fertile parcel of land within his estate, complete with its own tenant farmers, for her exclusive use and income. This land is separate from any dowry Isolde brought to the marriage.

  Explanation: This gift of land, presented by Lord Alaric to Lady Isolde on the morning after their wedding, serves as her personal property and source of income, distinct from other marital provisions. This perfectly illustrates a morgangiva.

• Example 2: The Merchant's Token of Affection
  In a bustling medieval trading town, Master Thomas, a successful spice merchant, weds Eleanor. The next morning, he presents her with a deed to a small, well-located shop in the market square. Eleanor is free to manage this shop herself, rent it out, or use its profits as she sees fit, providing her with independent financial means.

  Explanation: The shop given by Master Thomas to Eleanor the morning after their marriage is a direct personal gift intended for her independent use and benefit, embodying the historical concept of a morgangiva.

• Example 3: The Knight's Personal Endowment
  Sir Gareth, a respected knight with a modest estate, marries Lady Rowena. On the first morning of their married life, he bestows upon her a beautifully crafted silver casket filled with a significant sum of gold coins, explicitly stating it is for her personal expenses, charitable endeavors, or future investments, entirely at her discretion.

  Explanation: The silver casket and its contents, given by Sir Gareth to Lady Rowena on the morning after their wedding, represent a personal and independent asset for her, consistent with the historical practice of a morgangiva.