Barbarous Ancestors

Barbarous Ancestors explores the recurring practice of governing the living by the reconstructed intentions of the deceased, from medieval trials like the Cadaver Synod to modern constitutional originalism. The book examines how various fields and historical moments have relied on interpreting or "resurrecting" past voices and ideas, often resulting in a persistent debate over authority and meaning. Through diverse examples, it highlights how the voices of the dead continue to influence contemporary life and law.