Libel

('b'l.) [ From L. libellus, a little book.] (Law.) The publication of that written or printed matter which tends to degrade a man in the opinion of his neighbors, or to make him an object of odium or ridicule. Both the author and the publisher of a L. are liable to punishment by a prosecution, or to be compelled to make reparation by a civil action. The latter is grounded upon the injury which the L. is supposed to occasion to the individual; the public prosecution upon its tendency to provoke a breach of the peace. In pleading to an indictment, the defendant may, by way of defence, allege the truth of the matter charged, and may show that their publication is for the good of society. The jury are now authorized to decide not only on the publication and meaning of the L., but also on its criminality. [s. 542]