Wacław Potocki’s Understanding of Patriotism
Wacław Potocki’s Understanding of Patriotism

Summary/Abstract: This article describes the concept of patriotism, as shown in the writings of Wacław Potocki– a poet of the Polish Baroque. The analysis shows that the author, who came from the middleincomegentry, understood love for his country in two ways: firstly, as the commitment to defend itsborders during the numerous wars of the 17th century; secondly, as the obligation to perform one’scivic duties and adopt a pro-state and pro-community attitude. Raising these issues on several occasions,Potocki did not propose any major political changes with the aim of weakening the positionof the gentry or the aristocracy. Nevertheless, in his poetic reflections he was very critical of the conductof some representatives of those privileged social classes.

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