Beyond Devotion: Religious and Literary Communities in the 16th and 17th Century Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth

This volume is a valuable contribution to the study of religious literature of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, exploring the different genres of sermons and novels and tracing their heritage to their social and literary context. It also examines the origins of vernacular translations of the Holy Scriptures and the controversies surrounding them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2022
Publisher: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht GmbH & Co KG

This comprehensive volume is a groundbreaking exploration of religious literature from the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, conducted by scholars from both Poland and Lithuania. Its significance lies in the unwavering commitment to transcend the boundaries and tensions of the modern world, which often promote a sense of separateness rather than recognizing the profound interconnectedness of all things. Lukasz Cybulski and Kristina Rutkovska, the authors of this study, delve into the secular and religious writings of both secular authors and those affiliated with the clergy and religious orders. Their primary focus lies in examining the diverse genres of early modern Polish and Lithuanian sermons and novels, while also tracing their heritage to their social and literary context through the examination of their material presence in manuscript form and in print.

In addition to this scholarly endeavor, other papers in this volume provide valuable insights into the origins of vernacular translations of the Holy Scriptures and the controversies surrounding them. They also shed light on the written testimonies of religious devotion and conversions, offering a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives. The overarching aim of this volume has been not only to confront different kinds of texts and experiences but also to contextualize this heritage within its social and confessional framework. By doing so, it seeks to shed light on the complex interplay between religion, society, and culture during this pivotal period in history.

This volume is a valuable contribution to the field of religious studies, providing a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of religious literature and its historical context. It will be of interest to scholars, students, and anyone with an interest in the history and culture of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

Dimension: 235 x 160 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783525552957