Uncover the Language and Emotions of the Polish Middle Ages: The "JAM POSEŁKINI JEGO" Exhibition

This exhibition delves into the language and emotions of the Polish Middle Ages, showcasing some of the oldest surviving Polish texts from nearly 800 years ago. It explores linguistic evolution, with examples like the "Kazania świętokrzyskie" and "Psałterz floriański," highlighting how medieval words and concepts resonate with contemporary discussions.

The exhibition "JAM POSEŁKINI JEGO. Język i emocje polskiego średniowiecza" (I am His Messenger. The Language and Emotions of Polish Middle Ages) presents the oldest texts in the Polish language, some dating back almost 800 years. It highlights how many elements of ancient Polish have survived to this day, what has changed, and what has surprisingly returned. The exhibition features key relics such as the "Kazania świętokrzyskie" (Holy Cross Sermons) from the 13th century, testifying to the maturity of the Polish language, and the "Psałterz floriański" (Florian Psalter) from the 14th century, created for Saint Queen Jadwiga. Some manuscripts from the 15th century, normally kept in the National Library's treasury, have been exhibited for the first time. The exhibition demonstrates that words like "posełkini" (female messenger/envoy) and "prorokini" (female prophet) were part of the language from its beginnings, challenging modern perceptions of feminatives. It illustrates the dynamic ecosystem of language, where words evolve, disappear, or reappear, reflecting the intimate emotions, religious fervor, daily life, medicine, magic, threats, and jokes of the medieval era. The exhibition transcends linguistic boundaries, engaging the senses and placing medieval words in dialogue with contemporary art through sculptures by Sasza Wiktor and light installations by Aleksandr Prowaliński, complemented by graphics by Hanna Dudkowiak. This interdisciplinary narrative reveals treasures of ancient Polish that resonate with current social and cultural debates.

Admission to the exhibition is free of charge. Additional events such as lectures and curatorial tours will be held, with information to be published on the websites of the National Library and the Palace of the Commonwealth.