Legal Definitions - pupillus

In ancient Roman law, a pupillus referred to a child who had not yet reached the age of puberty and was legally under the authority of an adult guardian, known as a tutor. This guardian was responsible for managing the child's property, legal affairs, and general well-being until the child reached puberty (typically 12 for girls and 14 for boys), at which point their legal status would change.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of a pupillus:

• Example 1: An Orphaned Boy Inheriting Property

  Imagine a Roman boy named Marcus, who is 10 years old when his parents tragically pass away. Marcus inherits a substantial estate, including land and funds. Because he is well below the age of puberty (14 for boys in Roman law) and legally unable to manage his own inheritance or make significant legal decisions, his paternal uncle, Gaius, is appointed as his tutor. Under Gaius's guardianship, Marcus is considered a pupillus until he reaches puberty.

  This illustrates the term because Marcus is a child under the age of puberty and is under the legal authority of Gaius, his appointed tutor, who oversees his affairs.

• Example 2: A Young Girl Requiring Guardianship

  Consider a Roman girl named Livia, who is 9 years old when her father dies. Even though her mother is still alive, Roman law often required a male tutor to oversee a female child's legal and financial matters until she reached puberty (12 for girls). Livia's maternal grandfather, Decimus, is designated as her tutor to manage any inherited property and ensure her legal interests are protected. Livia, being under the age of puberty and under Decimus's guardianship, is therefore a pupillus.

  This example demonstrates the term as Livia is a child below the age of puberty who is placed under the legal authority of Decimus, her tutor, to manage her legal and financial well-being.