Explain The Code Of Hammurabi

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Pages: 2

Hammurabi’s Code reveals the prevalent social stratification of ancient Mesopotamian society. The Code of Hammurabi, a collection of severely stringent laws, communicates a distinct division and inequality in Mesopotamia’s societal classes. This disparity is specifically exemplified in law eight, which declares the punishment for thievery. The rule states that criminals possessing another’s livestock must suffer proper retribution for their transgression. However, the assumed sanction varies depending on social and wealth status. For example, if the purloined animal belonged to a divine or prominent figure such as a priest or government official, the punishment comprises a fine of “thirtyfold”, in contrast to the reduced fine of “tenfold”