This thesis researches the legal status of people with mental illnesses in the fifteenth century Low Countries, based on an analysis of both normative sources (bylaws) and sources of practice ...Show moreThis thesis researches the legal status of people with mental illnesses in the fifteenth century Low Countries, based on an analysis of both normative sources (bylaws) and sources of practice (court cases). It looks at two specific areas, namely guardianship procedures and inheritance law. The research focusses on an urban setting, using two case studies (Leiden and Leuven). The findings are placed in a comparative context by comparing them with results for other cities in the Low Countries, as well as the findings of other medievalists for different countries (England, France and Italy).Show less
In 1355-56 Count William V confronted the Bishop of Utrecht with a fully mounted force. Both sides raided and skirmished to control strongholds on the major rivers (Rhine and Waal) and to encircle...Show moreIn 1355-56 Count William V confronted the Bishop of Utrecht with a fully mounted force. Both sides raided and skirmished to control strongholds on the major rivers (Rhine and Waal) and to encircle Utrecht. The final offensive of the count was a chevauchee of almost 3000 horses, which forced the Bishops surrender in June 1356. The forces collected by the count were mostly from Guelders and Holland but also from other principalities which bordered the great rivers. Their interest in trade and tolls is likely to have been a key factor to explain their involvement.Show less
