Question

In 150 to 200 words, compare and contrast the two laws from the Code of Hammurabi. Include whom they address, and write about the kind of society or people that might need this sort of law. What are relationships like?

Answer 1

Hammurabi’s Code was the first important attempt by a ruler to codify, or arrange  and set down in writing, all the laws that would govern a state. This code was made to ensure peace and make his power known across the whole empire. There are approximately 282 laws: 41 criminal laws and 241 civil laws. Civil Laws covered slavery, debts & money, hired laborers, real estate, family issues, and so on that pertain to private rights and matters. These civil laws were made to protect the powerless which were mostly slaves and women. However, in terms of marriage, if a woman is found at fault she could possibly be thrown into a river. If found blameless, she just leaves her husband. Hammurabi's Code affects the type of punishment people received based on their social ranking and gender. These harsh yet stabilized rules enabled the society of Mesopotamia to have less corruption, violence, and arguments. However, this code also made a huge impact on latter societies. On the code was one of the first written form of government. This gave later civilizations an idea how to shape their government and write it out. His code became the model for the many generations of civilizations’ law codification.