Hammurabi's Code of Laws
Directions: Read Hammurabi's Code, and answer the questions. Questions 1-10 are in order, and the last two
questions are your opinion (but you need to say why you think the way that you think)
1. How many years ago was this written?
2. Under whose authority does Hammurabi claim to rule?
3. What happens if you are guilty of kidnapping?
4. What happens if you are guilty of robbery?
5. Why is it important not to be lazy if you're a farmer?
6. What do the differences in #137 and #138 say about the role of Babylonian women?
7. Are there differences in punishments depending on class? In what ways?
8. Would you want to be a doctor back then? Why or why not?
9. How about a builder?
10. Are these laws supposed to be permanent or temporary?
11. Which law would you like the United States to adopt, and why?
12. What do you think is the most unfair law, and why?