Tren XVII i XVIII Jana Kochanowskiego wobec biblijnej Księgi Psalmów Dawidowych
Laments XVII and XVIII by Jan Kochanowski against the biblical Book of Davidic Psalms

Summary/Abstract: Reflecting on the place of the Laments XVII and XVIII within the funerary cycle of Jan Kochanowski, the author of the article comes to the conclusion that, contrary to appearances, it is possible to identify many arguments in favor of their integral relationship with the rest of the collection. However, the fundamental purpose of the dissertation is to set both works in relation to the biblical tradition of the Book of Psalms. The author’s attention is particularly drawn to the crowning phrase of Lament XVIII: “Use mercy on me today, O Lord!,” which the poet uses in only slightly altered form on six other occasions, each time in a paraphrase of the Psalter of his pen. Analysis of individual cases leads to the conclusion that the hero of the Laments, plunged into despair, can count on a favorable response from his Creator. For He always comes to the aid of those who humbly turn to Him asking for mercy.

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