Published : 2021-12-10

Paranethic Themes in Medieval Polish Hagiography

Abstract

Paranesis a term of Greek origin, may be referred to as instruction, warning, advice, or even an incentive to fulfil certain tasks. Paranetic themes in literature were already explored in ancient times, even by Homer. Drawing heavily on the heritage of antiquity, medieval writers created Christian role models. Hagiography is a perfect genre to serve this function. In their Lives and Miracles, creators offerred instructions on how to live in search of true sanctity. These kind and charitable individuals will value the Holy Mass, prayer, charity, fasting, broadly understood ascetisism as well as care and attention to the sick and the poor.  Hagiographers also depicted the lives of ordinary people whose prayers for miracles, mostly healings, were answered. These individuals’ attitudes prioritise fervent prayer, oath of renounciation, tremendous faith and trust in God. Hahiographic masterpieces also explain moral principles showing the effects of sin and lack of neighbour love in everyday life. The texts also refer to eternity, showing both positive and negative characters determining either heaven or hell as final destinations of their souls.

Keywords:

paranesis, hagiography, the Middle Ages, saints



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Kowalska-Pietrzak, A. (2021). Paranethic Themes in Medieval Polish Hagiography. Biografistyka Pedagogiczna, 6(2), 33–51. https://doi.org/10.36578/BP.2021.06.37

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"Biografistyka Pedagogiczna" received funding for the years 2022-2024 from the funds of the Minister of Education and Science under the programme „Rozwój Czasopism Naukowych”.

Project duration: 2023-2024.

The amount of co-financing is 65 992,00 PLN

Contract number: RCN/SP/0434/2021/1