Doctrine of Ancient Respectability

The doctrine of ancient respectability is applied in determining whether defamatory utterances constitute grave or light defamation.

Under this doctrine, the gravity of defamatory words is assessed by considering not only their plain meaning, grammatical significance, and common understanding when judged in isolation, but also the specific circumstances surrounding the case, including the antecedents or relationship between the offended party and the offender. common understanding when judged in isolation, but also the specific circumstances surrounding the case, including the antecedents or relationship between the offended party and the offender.