rescripta

Byzantine and Roman document

Also known as: rescript

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July 13, 2026

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A rescript was an official written response from a Roman emperor or a pope to a petition or legal inquiry. It could also refer to any authoritative order, decree, or announcement. The term originates from Latin, meaning "to write in reply". Rescripts served as a form of issuing public orders and were used to provide rulings or directives.123

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diplomatics
The Roman and Byzantine empire
…civil and penal law), and rescripts (the emperor’s replies to inquiries from corporate and administrative bodies or private persons). In the Byzantine era documents concerning more day-to-day affairs can be grouped under the headings of foreign letters, privileges, and administration. Foreign letters include correspondence with other rulers, treaties (regarded not…
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…civil and penal law), and rescripts (the emperor’s replies to inquiries from corporate and administrative bodies or private persons). In the Byzantine era documents concerning more day-to-day affairs can be grouped under the headings of foreign letters, privileges, and administration. Foreign letters include correspondence with other rulers, treaties (regarded not…
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constitutiones principum
…subordinates, especially provincial governors, (3) rescripta, written answers to officials or others who consulted the emperor, in particular on a point of law, and (4) decreta, or decisions of the emperor sitting as a judge.
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…subordinates, especially provincial governors, (3) rescripta, written answers to officials or others who consulted the emperor, in particular on a point of law, and (4) decreta, or decisions of the emperor sitting as a judge.
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