Abstract
The trickster is a mythic figure that features in cultures from around the world. While better-known examples of the figures are evident in non-Western cultures, the argument here is that many features of the law match those of the trickster – particularly those of Hermes. The law is an immortal mortal, an enchanter and disenchanter, and a shapeshifting bricoleur. The law, then is shown to have a liminal role, interceding between “Justice” and humanity. This, in turn, raises questions about our role as legal academics. We are also liminal – holding no obligation toward law, justice or humanity. Our role as “priests” is to offer words as sacrifices, words that may scold, laugh at, or support the immature trickster law.