Norwidowski sztukmistrz
The Word {sztukmistrz} in the Writings of Norwid

Summary/Abstract: The paper shows the evolution of the lexeme {sztukmistrz} in the Polish language and deals with its usage in the texts by Cyprian Kamil Norwid. The word {sztukmistrz} (tr. circus performer, magician, conjuror) has been recorded in dictionaries since the beginning of the 17th century. However, it rarely appears in texts, probably due to its pleonastic structure (the meaning of the word {mistrz} contains the idea of being proficient in a certain area). The word {sztukmistrz} is more common in 19th century texts, in the period of Romanticism. In the majority of cases it refers to eminent and versatile artists of the ancient times. Simultaneously, the word may refer to jugglers, conjurers and tightrope walkers – all those who have mastered a certain trick. This axiological ambiguity results in the fact that in the 20th century sztukmistrz became rare and currently is used either as a rather elevated and archaic word denoting an eminent artist or as a circus performer.

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