Written and visual expressions of authority of female monastic institutions in Medieval Livonia: 13th to 15th centuries

This article presents a study of how women (specifically nuns and abbesses) were perceived in medieval Livonia. Given the significant increase accessible academic work on crusading movement eastern Baltic, scholarly considerations visual culture this region, reconsiderations roles played by world general, turns from central regions Medieval Europe to periphery. It begins providing historical overview sources, commenting sparsity specific representations narrative texts for Livonian crusades produced 13th century. Following overview, it analyses vast amount charter evidence available The first part looks at ways these institutions patronized as result their intercessory authority. Looking donations 15th century, also comments which private citizens, church officials, members Teutonic Order viewed powers. second considers economic authority gained institutions, particularly form land donations. Finally, addresses styled themselves written documents depicted power media, seals but architecture.