Legal Definitions - capitula coronae

Definition: Capitula coronae (pronounced kuh-pich-uh-luh kuh-roh-nee) is a Latin term that means "chapters of the Crown." It refers to a more detailed version of the articles of the eyre, which were a series of questions asked by justices in eyre to discover breaches of the law that occurred during the court's absence. This inquiry allowed the justices to fine criminal behavior and raise revenue for the Crown through the levying of penalties.

During the Middle Ages, the articles of the eyre were used to maintain law and order in England. For example, if a member of a community was found guilty of stealing, they would be fined and the money would go to the Crown. This helped to ensure that people followed the law and that the Crown had enough money to govern effectively.

Another example of the use of capitula coronae is when the justices in eyre would ask questions about the condition of roads and bridges in a community. If they found that they were in disrepair, they would order the community to fix them and pay a fine if they did not comply.

These examples illustrate how capitula coronae were used to maintain law and order in medieval England. By asking detailed questions and levying fines, the Crown was able to ensure that people followed the law and that the country was well-governed.