๐ Topic Summary
Hammurabi's Code was one of the earliest and most complete written legal codes. Proclaimed by the Babylonian king Hammurabi, who reigned from 1792 to 1750 B.C., the code consisted of 282 laws with scaled punishments, adjusting "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" (lex talionis) as graded depending on social status, of slave versus free man.
These laws covered various aspects of life, including trade, family, and crime. Understanding Hammurabi's Code gives us insights into the values and social structures of ancient Mesopotamian society. This worksheet will help you explore key concepts and test your knowledge!
๐ Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with its definition:
- โ๏ธ Lex Talionis
- ๐๏ธ Code
- ๐ Hammurabi
- โ๏ธ Scribe
- ๐ Mesopotamia
- A. An ancient region in Western Asia situated within the Tigris and Euphrates river system.
- B. A person who copies out documents, especially one employed to do this before printing was invented.
- C. A set of laws or regulations.
- D. The principle or law of retaliation that a punishment inflicted should correspond in degree and kind to the offense.
- E. The sixth king of the First Babylonian Dynasty, reigning from 1792 to 1750 BC.
๐ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the missing words in the paragraph below:
Hammurabi's Code was created in ancient __________. It contains __________ laws covering topics like trade and __________. The principle of "an __________ for an eye" is a key feature, but punishments varied based on social __________. Studying this code helps us understand ancient Babylonian __________.
๐ค Part C: Critical Thinking
If Hammurabi's Code were applied today, what aspects would be considered fair, and what aspects would be considered unfair? Explain your reasoning.