Vehmgericht / Secret Soc
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Vehmgericht / Secret Soc
Members of the Vehmgericht, or Judges of the Secret Court, of Westphalia, who have just hanged one of their victims from a tree Date: 16th century?
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Media ID 7120103
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10122669
Berlioz Francs Groups Hanged Judges Members Secret Societies Victims Westphalia
EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image captures the moment of execution in a Vehmgericht, or Secret Court, in Westphalia during the 16th century. The Vehmgericht was a clandestine judicial body that operated outside of the established legal system, meting out justice according to their own rules and traditions. The members, dressed in hooded robes to maintain their anonymity, are seen here as they prepare to hang one of their victims from a tree. The victim, likely accused of a serious crime such as heresy or witchcraft, is shown with a noose around his neck, his hands bound behind his back. The scene is reminiscent of the infamous "Francs-Archers" of the same region, who were also known for their secretive and violent methods of justice. The Vehmgerichts were a complex phenomenon, with some historians viewing them as a form of popular resistance against the oppressive feudal system, while others saw them as a dangerous and violent threat to social order. The image serves as a stark reminder of the power and fear that these secret societies held over their communities, and the brutal consequences of their actions. This photograph, taken from the extensive collection of historical prints at Mary Evans Prints Online, provides a unique glimpse into the dark and mysterious world of the Vehmgerichts and the secret societies of the 16th century. The image is a powerful reminder of the complex and often violent history of justice and law enforcement in Europe during this period, and the enduring fascination that such societies continue to hold for historians, writers, and artists.
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