Pierre de Belleperche

„If I had a secular office, I would never accept the tonsure“, stated Pierre de Belleperche (d. 1308) during his lectures at Orleans law school, reflecting his discomfort with his clerical status. Despite opportunities for advancement under King Philip the Fair after 1296, Belleperche retained his tonsure and expressed dissatisfaction with his time in Orleans. Nevertheless, he produced an exemplary body of work, particularly his lectures on Roman law, noted for their clarity and organization. Belleperche held strict views on interpreting Roman law and teaching methods, having observed the misuse of Justinian's texts by colleagues, especially Jacques de Revigny, whom he criticized for his dialectical approach and lack of understanding of Roman law's spirit. Their differing perspectives on customary law and other legal matters are significant in Belleperche's writings. He was also troubled by abuses within the French church, aligning him with King Philip until the persecution of the Knights Templar led to his dismissal as Keeper of the Seal. His death shortly after raises questions about his refusal to condone the King's unjust actions. This book explores Belleperche's major work, a lecture on the Code, which, though never published, influenced Italian jurist Cinus de Pistoia. It uncovers Belleperche's interpretative methods and contextualizes his legal views within the French legal landscape, foreshadowing Bartolus' strict inte