From the parallel Latin-English critical edition of the “Chronica Polonorum” by Darius von Güttner-Sporzyński. A part of the NCN-financed project “Kronika polska” biskupa krakowskiego Wincentego zwanego Kadłubkiem. Pierwsze wydanie krytyczne łacińsko-angielskie. [Project No. 2022/47/B/HS3/00931]

In his Chronica Polonorum, Bishop Vincentius of Cracow frequently references classical authors such as Ovid, Virgil, and Horace, citing them around 150 times, alongside approximately 140 biblical allusions, predominantly from the Old Testament, particularly the Books of Kings and the Book of Psalms. This extensive use of classical and biblical sources points to Vincentius’s intention to engage a well-educated, classically versed readership, capable of appreciating the intricate plot, the elegance of poetic expression, and the depth of literary references.

The Chronicle’s Prologue serves as a guide for its readers, underscoring the seriousness of the work and indicating that its full comprehension demands an educated mind and meticulous study. Vincentius introduces a metaphor involving three figures from antiquity: Codrus, Alcibiades, and Diogenes, highlighting their virtues and follies, and their shared disdain for ‘causis theatrales’ (theatrical festivals). This metaphor is a strategic device, asserting that his Chronicle transcends mere entertainment; it contains content of substantial worth and significance.

Vincentius’s didactic approach and his use of metaphor are calculated. He crafts his narrative for an audience accustomed to refined Latin texts, simultaneously implying that those lacking education or sophistication would fail to grasp its nuances. The Prologue of the Chronicle also subtly defends the work against potential criticism, insinuating that those who do not comprehend or endorse it are intellectually unequipped. Vincentius concludes the Prologue with a direct appeal, stating that only those with an elegant intellect or distinguished refinement are qualified to judge his work, urging readers not to dismiss it without thorough understanding.

“Illud denique aput omnes precor esse inpetratum, ne omnibus passim de nobis detur iudicium, set eis dumtaxat quos ingenii elegantia vel urbanitatis commendat claritudo, ne cui nos prius liceat despicere quam perdiligentissime dispexisse” (=not everyone indiscriminately should pass judgement on us, but only by those whom the discernment of intellect or cultural refinement counsels.).

Chronica Polonorum, Prologue 4.4.

Moreover, Vincentius employs the metaphor of culinary taste throughout the Chronicle to differentiate between superficial and profound interpretations. In the initial instance of this metaphor, he cautions that the work is complex and best appreciated when read and contemplated slowly and profoundly. He argues,

“Non enim sapit gingiber nisi masticatum nec est aliquid quod in transitu delectet, set est incivile re inperspecta de re iudicare” (=For ginger does not taste unless chewed, and nothing pleases in passing; it is uncivil to judge a matter unexamined.).

Chronica Polonorum, Prologue 4.4.

This metaphor serves as a recurring theme, guiding the reader to approach his work with the depth and contemplation it warrants, reinforcing the Chronicle’s status as a text demanding intellectual engagement and discernment.