CLOSE ROLLS Meaning and
Definition
-
Close rolls refer to a set of historical documents created and maintained by the British monarchy. The term "close" is derived from the Latin term "clausus," meaning sealed or closed, indicating the confidential nature of these records. The close rolls were typically composed of parchment rolls that were rolled up, tied with a ribbon or parchment strip, and sealed with the monarch's seal. They contained various legal and administrative matters considered important to the Crown.
These documents were primarily produced during the medieval period, extending from the 12th to the 19th centuries, and covered a wide range of topics. They recorded royal grants, charters, appointments, and licenses, including the granting of land, estates, and offices. Additionally, close rolls documented matters related to the rights and privileges of individuals, such as the confirmation of inheritances or the release of debts.
The close rolls were distinct from the "patent rolls," which were also maintained by the Crown. While the patent rolls were publicly accessible, the close rolls, as their name suggests, were closed to public scrutiny and were typically used for more sensitive or confidential matters. However, over time, some close rolls have become available to researchers, offering valuable insights into medieval governance, law, and social relations.
In summary, close rolls were confidential records produced by the British monarchy during the medieval period. They contained important legal and administrative matters related to land grants, appointments, and privileges, and were kept sealed from public access.
Common Misspellings for CLOSE ROLLS
- xlose rolls
- vlose rolls
- flose rolls
- dlose rolls
- ckose rolls
- cpose rolls
- coose rolls
- clise rolls
- clkse rolls
- cllse rolls
- clpse rolls
- cl0se rolls
- cl9se rolls
- cloae rolls
- cloze rolls
- cloxe rolls
- clode rolls
- cloee rolls
- clowe rolls
- closw rolls
Etymology of CLOSE ROLLS
The term "Close Rolls" has its origin in English medieval administration and comes from the Latin word "clausus", meaning closed or shut. In medieval England, official records, charters, writs, orders, and other important documents were recorded on rolls of parchment. These rolls were classified into different categories based on their nature and were either kept open (patent) or closed (close).
The Close Rolls referred to specific rolls of parchment that contained private, confidential, or sensitive matters pertaining to the governance of the country. These rolls were sealed with a special close seal, hence the name "Close Rolls". They were closed to public scrutiny and served as a record of royal letters, grants, appointments, pardons, and other official communications between the monarch and government officials.
The Close Rolls provide valuable historical information about the politics, administration, and legal matters of medieval England and are an important source for historians and researchers.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
