De l'origine et de l'institution du notariat
Précis historique lu à l'Academie des Sciences, belles-lettres et arts de Clermont-Ferrand
"De l'origine et de l'institution du notariat" by Euryale Fabre is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work delves into the evolution of the notarial profession, tracing its origins from ancient communal practices surrounding property rights to its establishment as a formal institution in society. Fabre explores the significance of notaries in legal transactions, reflecting on their role as public officials and custodians of civil matters. The opening of this book introduces the concept of property rights, detailing how different cultures and societies historically managed agreements and possessions. Fabre emphasizes the limitations and challenges posed by memory and mortality in the enforcement of oral agreements, which led societies to create more formalized structures. The narrative progresses through various historical periods, setting the groundwork for understanding the development of notarial practices, including the introduction of written contracts and the evolution of the role of scribes to notaries. This sets the stage for further exploration of how notarial institutions adapted and evolved throughout history.