Narva Under The Livonian Order: The Role Of Bailiffs In Court System

Abstract

Medieval Narva, as a town under the order’s subordination, was administratively dependent on the bailiff of the Livonian Order, who was in the first instance focused on solving two tasks – maintaining defenses of the border fortress at a proper level and providing optimal conditions for the development of international trade in Narva. In legal proceedings in Narva, that had a town law and status of “commune”, bailiffs played a significant role until the early 16th century, but this did not raise resistance from the town council’s side. The interests of the Order and the town council in most cases corresponded. Thereto, the bailiffs acted as rights assurers of Narva’s citizens, who did not have any access to Hanseatic privileges, in international trade, and this allowed the Narva’s citizens to stand against the other Livonian towns, members of the Hansa, first of all - Reval. The protection of interests of citizens both inside Livonia and in the international field, that was carried out by the bailiffs, complied with the executive management guidelines of the Livonian order, as evidenced by the privileges granted to Narva by its Masters. Also, Livonian Masters often took sides with Narva in critical juncture, and defended Narva’s interests in disputes with the Hanseatic cities. With this background, the actions of the order's administration can be regarded as protection.