The Infamous Infangthief: Uncovering Medieval England's Most Despicable Thieves

Infangthief is a term that was used in medieval England to refer to a thief who specialized in stealing valuable items from churches and other religious institutions. The word "infang" referred to the right of the lord of the manor to punish criminals within his jurisdiction, and "thief" referred to the criminal activity itself.

Infangthiefs were considered to be particularly despicable because they targeted sacred places and stole items that were intended for religious use. These thieves often faced harsh penalties, including imprisonment and even death, if they were caught.

The term "infangthief" is no longer used in modern English, but it provides a fascinating glimpse into the legal and social norms of medieval England.