Tempus Fugit

           From the CODEX MANESSE (or Große Heidelberger Liederhandschrift), highlighting the theme of "Courtly Love". The codex Manesse is actually an anthology of Medieval High German songs known as Minnesang poetry. Written and illustrated between ca.1304-1307 in Zürich for the wealthy merchant Manesse family. Given: In a medieval setting, a princess finds herself sent to a foreign kingdom, destined to wed a man she scarcely knows. Unbeknownst to her, she embodies what I term the "medieval tool of diplomacy" – an essential pawn in sealing agreements, forging unions between kingdoms, or cementing peace treaties. Her fortune would be favorable indeed if the intended groom were a handsome, charismatic prince or a dignified king of noble bearing. Yet, what if fate cast her lot with an aging, portly widowed ruler? Her youth would be squandered in the pursuit of bearing an heir for the king, and she might rue her existence trapped within an unaffectionate union. Then:

   Swiss army (left) -- The Battle of Sempach 1386. From the Luzerner Schilling Mention Switzerland, and people will often associate it with its picturesque alpine scenery, exquisite chocolate, renowned hotel industry, flavorful cheese, precision watches, innovative pharmaceuticals, iconic Swiss army knife, and, of course, its historical role in banking and harboring the wealth of various individuals, including dictators. Nearly everyone would agree that Switzerland is a prosperous country. For instance, its major city, Zurich, is consistently ranked as one of the best cities in the world in terms of quality of life. However, there was a time when Switzerland faced poverty, prompting many of its citizens to seek employment abroad. During the late Middle Ages, numerous Swiss men were recruited as mercenaries by foreign countries and kingdoms. Their reputation as a cohesive and formidable fighting unit is legendary, as they engaged as soldiers of fortune in some of the most brutal wars