Parricidas / Parricide (DCH)

No. 2026-01

English Abstract: 

The main purpose of this entry is to outline the different forms of parricide, understood as homicide impiously committed against one’s own family members. Particular attention is given to doctrinal opinions on abortion, taking into account theological theories on foetal animation and the canonical regulation of medical practices related to embryology. In addition, the criminalisation of infanticide, the exposure of foundlings, and the abandonment of the sick are studied. Furthermore, the judicial practice of punishing parricide in the Spanish possessions in America is analysed. Social factors, ethnic diversity and gender inequality played an important role in the exercise of judicial discretion. The entry concludes with a brief historiographical reflection.