The argumentative priest
zoom in zoom out

The argumentative priest

In the 17th century the inhabitants of Höflein are known for their obstinacy. Höflein has recurring problems with Petronell, as there are farmers belonging to the local church that serve both Höflein and Petronell. 2 farmers are unwilling to serve both at once and refuse to work for the lady of Petronell, Baroness von Weber. The judge in Petronell attempts to bring order to Höflein, insulting the priest with rough language and even calling him a thief. The 2 farmers are to be punished and are locked up in Petronell. The next day the priest storms into the castle, gains access to the baroness and starts a loud argument. He hardly allows her a word in edgeways and, according to the castle chronicles, when she tells him that he is below her he shouts out that a priest is as good as a noblewoman! The priest is only able to do this because he stands outside of worldly jurisdiction. The baroness is deeply insulted and complains to the Bishop of Passau that the undutiful priest should be punished. But the bishop is unmoved. The priest’s insults are simply revoked despite the lady’s protests. Her last entry is very indignant, but she is probably aware how the clerical court will decide. She just writes crossly, “I will not go to court!” And with that the dispute between the argumentative priest and the baroness comes to an end. The 2 farmers from Höflein are released and everything goes back to how it was.

Fields marked with * are required.