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Simple English definitions for legal terms
wolf's head
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A quick definition of wolf's head:
A wolf's head was a term used to describe an outlaw who was considered to be no better than a wild animal and could be killed by anyone. They were often referred to as carrying a wolf's head and their head could be taken to the king as proof of their death. Outlawry was a serious punishment in ancient times and was used when there were no police or hangmen to enforce the law. The phrase "let him bear the wolf's head" was commonly used in the thirteenth century to refer to outlaws.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: An outlaw who is considered to be no more than a wild beast or wolf and can be slain. The outlaw is often referred to as carrying a wolf's head (caput lupinum), and their head can be carried to the king. This term is also known as woolferthfod.
Example: Outlawry is the last weapon of ancient law, but one that it must often use. To pursue the outlaw and knock him on the head as though he were a wild beast is the right and duty of every law-abiding man. 'Let him bear the wolf's head': this phrase is in use even in the thirteenth century.
Explanation: The example illustrates how an outlaw was considered to be no more than a wild beast or wolf and could be slain. The phrase "Let him bear the wolf's head" means that the outlaw's head could be carried to the king as proof of their death. This term was used in ancient law when there were no police constables or professional hangmen, and it was the right and duty of every law-abiding man to pursue and kill the outlaw.