Religious and Political Situation in Poland in the 18th Century; Political and Social-Economic Relations After the unsuccessful and ineffectual reign of King Michał Korybut Wiśniowiecki (1669-1673), the monarchical power in Poland was taken over by a Piast [a Pole]. The throne of Poland was occupied not only by an outstanding military leader but also by an exceptional statesman. The reign of King John III Sobieski (1674-1696) marks the last shining period in the history of the Commonwealth, which was slowly heading towards decline. Unfortunately, the king’s plans and efforts to strengthen central authority, implement internal reforms, and abolish the destructive liberum veto collapsed. The cause of this failure was the absurd ideology and practice of the nobility’s “golden liberty,” its uncompromising defense by the noblemen, and the hostile activities of foreign courts.1 Fr. Papczyński wholeheartedly supported the reformist aspirations of King John Sobieski, with whom he had a close acquaintance. In sermons, teachings, and especially in his work Prodromus Reginae Artium, he condemned the turmoil and division in the nation, the arbitrariness of the nobility, and the privileges of the “golden liberty,” making him a courageous precursor in this regard. He wrote: “Poland is in turmoil, becoming a field of upheaval for every audacious individual. Conspiracies and rebellions arise against it, and wealth is acquired from the blood of human suffering, lacking the spirit of love and virtue. Instead, there is repentance before the enemy. The Senate stains itself with treason.”2 These were strong words, speaking the truth, but also dangerous for their author. 1 Zbigniew Wójcik, Jan III Sobieski, in: Poczet królów i książąt polskich, Warszawa, 1978, pp. 399-410. 2 Jan Kosmowski, Człowiek wrażliwości społecznej, in: Mąż Boży. Szkice teologiczno-duszpasterskie o ojcu Stanisławie Papczyńskim, Warszawa, 2007, p. 54. In the proclaimed reformatory theses, it is worth emphasizing the courage and uncompromising attitude of Fr. Papczyński. Stanislaus Papczyński himself recalls that his writings stirred up a storm and provoked
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjI2Mw==