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Tides of History
The Paradoxes of Meister Franz Schmidt
Meister Franz Schmidt was an executioner in Germany in the 16th-17th century. Despite the disreputable nature of his profession, he was highly skilled, well-paid, and even provided housing by the city. However, he felt deeply ashamed and aspired to be a healer. He carried out a side business as a healer during his career as an executioner. After retiring, he received a special privilege from the emperor to remove the hereditary dishonorable status. Meister Franz had a strong moral sense, viewed executions as necessary, and preferred healing people. He was literate, deeply pious, respected by town officials and citizens, and his story reveals the paradoxes of early modern society.
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