Voss—Regulations of the University of Wittenberg, 1546. 399 
bordered with a strip of plush not broader than a finger 
length. As in the case of the doctors, especial prohibition is 
laid upon the splitting or cutting of gowns as a reprehensible 
fashion intended only as a means for boastful display and 
vanity. 
If this ordinance is not obeyed the fine shall be five Gulden, 
to be paid under all circumstances without exception. Men 
of noble birth who are students at the University must wear 
the same kind of gowns as the masters, that is they must be 
whole and of prescribed length, but they are allowed to have 
their hoods or caps made of plush, if unadorned by plumes, 
pearls, gold or embroidery. But only those noblemen shall en¬ 
joy these privileges who can establish at least four ancestors 
of nobility. 
Princes, counts and barons are not included in the above, but 
are advised that they must honor themselves by wearing becom¬ 
ing, dignified garments, and not give themselves to frivolous 
display. But all masters, noble or of lowly birth, all students, 
noble or otherwise, are forbidden to wear golden chains, dag¬ 
gers or swords with silver sheaths. In case of disobedience the 
fine is five Gulden, and the third offense shall be regarded as 
contempt and followed by suspension from the University for 
one year. All other students in all the colleges must wear gowns 
of prescribed length, neither slashed nor short, and of modest 
inexpensive quality. 
Then comes a lenient clause in which the authorities, realiz¬ 
ing the difficulty of an immediate change in dress, graciously 
give to all (princely, noble or otherwise), indulgence until 
next Michaelmas, before these dress regulations shall be in* 
forced. Meanwhile all students of noble birth and all others 
who enjoy the liberties and privileges of the University are ad¬ 
monished to have the honor and welfare of their Alma Mater 
at heart and to discard as fast as possible disreputable and un¬ 
becoming dress. This is pointed out as a great duty because it 
is nothing short of a great shame and scandal that men and 
youths should parade themselves in short clothing before decent 
and honorable maids and matrons. 
