The topic of my thesis is the oldest history of Charles University in Prague. It covers the period from its foundation in 1347 to the decline of its activities after the Decree of Kutná Hora in 1409. I have placed the activities of the Prague University in the context of the development of Prague during the reign of Charles IV. The University of Prague quickly grew into a prestigious institution, attracting professors and students from a wider Central European area. The complex political and social situation in the Empire at the end of the 14th century had an impact on the University. The Czech reformer Jan Hus was active at the university at this time, and the university became the centre of the reform movement. After the secession of the foreigners following the decree of
1409, the uncertain situation on the verge of the Hussite wars brought the University to a near standstill.
The thesis is divided into three parts: the first part describes the development of Prague under the reign of Charles IV, the second part deals with the university, and the last part is devoted to the situation at the turn of the century in the context of the university.
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