The Legal and Moral Assessment of Duelling in the 19th and mid-20th centuries in Hungary

Abstract

The role of duels changed a lot throughout history. Based upon observations, most duels resulted from personal grievances. Duels were present even in the mid-20th century in Hungary.

In the 20th century, duels were one of the greatest dilemmas of justice. The public opinion accepted duels, but the legal profession condemned them, mainly because of the possible negative consequences.

In my study, I will present most of the legal provisions for duels both in Hungary and in Europe, the ethical Code of duels, and the most important lawyers, opinions on duels. Finally, I will explain the main reasons that had led to the decline of duelling.