Die Richterin

by Conrad Ferdinand Meyer

"Die Richterin" by Conrad Ferdinand Meyer is a novella published in 1885. Set in early medieval Rhaetia during Charlemagne's reign, it follows Wulfrin, summoned by the powerful judge Stemma to rule on his father's suspicious death. When he declares her innocent, she assigns him another task: arranging the marriage of her daughter Palma. But forbidden feelings ignite between the supposed siblings, leading to violence and devastating revelations. As hidden crimes surface and passions collide, a dramatic trial before the Emperor will expose long-buried secrets and determine everyone's fate.