Based on author's thesis (doctoral - Uniwersytet Warszawski, 2012) issued under title: Testamenty mieszczan krakowskich (XIV-XV wiek). Includes bibliographical references (pages 366-399) and indexes.
Contents:
Introduction -- The institution of the will -- The socio-economic position of testators -- The Burgher family -- The Burgher religiosity -- Conclusion.
Summary:
"This volume offers the first comprehensive analysis of wills in late medieval Krakow. It presents the origins of testamentary acts in the Kingdom of Poland and its centre, Krakow, and their subsequent transformation from so called 'canonical wills' to 'communal wills'. Wysmu¿ek discusses the socio-cultural role of wills and sets them in their contemporary legal, social, and economic context. In doing so, he uncovers their influence on property ownership and family relations in the city, as well as on the religious practices of the burghers. Ultimately, this work seeks to change the perception of wills by treating the testamentary act itself as an important agent of historical social change - a 'tool of power'"-- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.