ABSTRACT
The Erdődys had to assemble the witnesses in Körmend to prove their allegations against the Augustinians. What factors did they take into account in doing so? The Augustinians overtly suggested that the witnesses were under the influence of the “patron’s party”: they were their peasant tenants or noble servitors, hence, respecting or fearing their feudal superiors. Would Péter Erdődy, who stayed in Körmend shortly before and during the interrogation, have really tried to influence the trial’s outcome in this way? We can better understand the events by taking a closer look at the witnesses and the situation, which saw them in important roles.
