Election of Rudolf I as King of the Romans
The moment of Rudolf I's election as King of the Romans in Frankfurt Cathedral, marking the end of the Great Interregnum and the beginning of Habsburg dominance in the Holy Roman Empire.
Setting
Frankfurt Cathedral, a grand Gothic structure with towering spires and stained glass windows. The election takes place in the nave, where the high vaulted ceilings and stone columns create an imposing atmosphere. The space is filled with the murmurs of noble electors and clergy, the air thick with anticipation.
Characters
Rudolf I
primary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his mid-forties with a weathered face marked by years of campaigning. His dark brown beard is neatly trimmed, and his piercing gray eyes command attention. A prominent scar runs from his left temple to cheekbone, a testament to his military past. His calloused hands grip the ceremonial scepter with practiced ease.
Archbishop of Mainz
primary
A tall, imposing figure in his late 50s with a stern yet dignified countenance. His sharp, hawk-like nose and deep-set eyes convey both wisdom and authority. His silvering hair is neatly tonsured, and his hands, though aged, are steady and expressive.
Elector of Saxony
secondary
A middle-aged man with a sturdy, warrior's build, his face weathered from years of campaigning. His sharp blue eyes survey the assembly with calculated intensity, framed by a neatly trimmed blond beard streaked with gray. His posture exudes the confidence of a seasoned ruler.
Cathedral Dean
secondary
A gaunt man in his late 50s with a sharply defined jawline and deep-set gray eyes that peer intently from beneath hooded lids. His thin lips are pressed tightly together in concentration, and his pale complexion suggests a life spent largely indoors. His hands are long-fingered and slightly trembling, betraying a nervous energy beneath his composed exterior.
Acolyte
background
A young male cleric in his late teens, slender and slightly hunched from years of study. His face is pale, with large, nervous eyes that dart around the cathedral. His hands are delicate, fingers twitching as he adjusts ceremonial items.
Dialog
Archbishop of Mainz
By the grace of God Almighty and in accordance with ancient custom, we declare Rudolf, Count of Habsburg, duly elected King of the Romans.
Cathedral Dean
Domine, salvum fac regem! The antiphon must begin precisely when the Archbishop lowers his hand—
Rudolf I
By the rights granted me through this election, I swear before these holy relics to uphold the peace of the realm.
Archbishop of Mainz
As witnessed by these sacred vows, let no man dispute what heaven and empire have ordained this day.
Cathedral Dean
The thurible! The thurible must swing thrice before—merciful saints, why is the incense not lit?
Rudolf I
Let those who would test this crown remember: a king's justice falls swift as a Swabian winter.