Meaning: The quote by Henry Maine speaks to the significance of Customary Law and its governance by a privileged order. In order to understand the quote, it is essential to delve into the context and significance of Customary Law within legal and historical frameworks.

Customary Law, also known as traditional or indigenous law, refers to a body of unwritten legal principles and practices that have evolved within a specific community over time. Unlike statutory law, which is codified and enacted by a legislative body, Customary Law is rooted in the traditions, customs, and norms of a particular society. It reflects the values, beliefs, and social structures of the community in which it operates.

The epoch referred to in the quote alludes to a specific period in history characterized by the prevalence and custodianship of Customary Law by a privileged order. This suggests a time when the enforcement and interpretation of Customary Law were controlled by a select group or class within the society. The notion of a privileged order implies a concentration of power and authority in the hands of a specific segment of the population, often associated with elite or aristocratic factions.

In the historical context, the custodianship of Customary Law by a privileged order can be linked to the feudal system and other hierarchical societal structures. During such periods, certain groups, such as nobility or religious institutions, held sway over the administration of justice and the interpretation of legal norms. This concentration of legal authority within a privileged order had far-reaching implications for issues of justice, equality, and social order.

Henry Maine, a renowned legal historian, was particularly interested in the evolution of legal systems and the transition from Customary Law to modern legal frameworks. His work shed light on the transformation of legal norms and institutions, emphasizing the shift from a reliance on tradition and custom to the codification of laws and the establishment of formal legal institutions.

Maine's characterization of the epoch of Customary Law as "very remarkable" speaks to the profound impact of this legal system on the societies in which it operated. The use of the term "remarkable" suggests that the era of Customary Law was not only significant but also noteworthy in terms of its influence on social and legal structures.

The quote also implies a critical stance toward the custodianship of Customary Law by a privileged order. It raises questions about the fairness, equity, and accessibility of justice when legal authority is concentrated in the hands of a select few. By highlighting the privileged nature of the custodians, Maine draws attention to the potential biases, inequalities, and power dynamics inherent in the enforcement and interpretation of Customary Law during that epoch.

In conclusion, Henry Maine's quote encapsulates the historical significance and complexities associated with Customary Law and its governance by a privileged order. It prompts reflection on the role of tradition, power, and justice in legal systems, inviting further exploration of the impact of Customary Law on societies and the evolution of legal institutions.