Die Gottesmutter als Schiedsrichterin

Summary Among the numerous writings that Psellos left behind, there is small but significant number of legal works. In the speech edited here, which was written und delivered on behalf of Emperor Michael vii Doukas, the focus is on a private arbitration procedure. The unusual and novel aspect lies on the fact that the Virgin Mary herself was appointed as the arbitrator. Psellos provides a detailed description of the approach, course and outgoing of this unique process.