在現代大陸法系的實證法和學理分類中，民法是整個分類系統的支柱。研究如何產生 這一分類的論文並不多。從民法概念的起源入手，論述公法和私法區分理論如何對民法的部門法 化產生影響。在這一結構下，一方面展示“民法”一詞從羅馬法到中世紀法和近現代國家立法的 演變過程，另一方面分析公法與私法區分理論本身的發展；展示公法私法區分理論如何導致法律 （尤其是民法）的部門化。最後，從批判性的角度揭示公法私法區分的理論不穩固以及其在法律 解釋上的功能限制。

In the positive and dogmatic classification system of continental law jurisdictions, the category of Civil Law is a pillar stone. Despite the importance of the classification, little effort is dedicated to clarifying how it was formed. The present paper starts with an introduction to the origin of the concept of Civil Law, and demonstrates how the dichotomy of Public Law and Private Law played its role in the development of Civil Law as a branch of law. Within such a theoretical structure, we examined on one hand the evolution of the concept of Civil Law from the classical roman era, middle ages and modern state legislations.; and on the other hand, explored the development of Public and Private Law Dichotomy, which led to the formation of different branches of law (particularly Civil Law as a branch). Finally, this paper probes into a critical discussion of the Public Law and Private Dichotomy, pointing out how it is not a solid legal theory as well as functional limitations in the interpretation of law.