Handbook

This course will introduce students to the historical development of law in England and Australia, and will include material on aboriginal law and Dutch law in Australia, as well as English legal history in Australia prior to and after the arrival of the First Fleet. The course proceeds thematically, addressing topics which illustrate legal developments in its political and social context.  Particular attention will be paid to the impact of the reception of English law in early Australian law.

Case studies will also be undertaken, looking at the development over time of the law of contract, the institution of marriage and aboriginal law (before and after white settlement). Learning will be by reading from prescribed textbooks and a rich variety of other sources.