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]

A brief overview of each section in the Prologue

Section (1): This section introduces three historical figures – Codrus, Alcibiades, and Diogenes – each eschewing theatrical festivals for different reasons. Codrus, due to his poverty and desire not to be ridiculed; Alcibiades, for fear of arousing envy because of his beauty; and Diogenes, to avoid demeaning the dignity of wisdom in the face of vulgarity. The section conveys the idea that wisdom and virtue often choose solitude over public display.

Section (2): The author reflects on the humble and austere nature of the book, suggesting that it’s protected from the scorn or superstition (the ‘evil eye’) often directed at more glamorous works. The work is presented as a modest but earnest attempt to record and honour the history and virtues of the forefathers, devoid of the superficiality and frivolity that might attract negative attention.

Section (3): Here, the author distinguishes between actions driven by recklessness, vanity, or greed, and those compelled by a sense of duty and obedience. The motivation behind the writing is clarified as not being personal glory or profit, but rather a sense of obligation and responsibility.

Section (4): The author acknowledges the reasonableness of fulfilling a request from a prince, who understands the importance of learning from ancestral examples. The metaphor of a journey with a guide is used to illustrate the value of learning from the past. The author humbly positions himself as an unworthy chronicler chosen by the prince, and appeals to the readers for fair judgment and understanding, emphasising the importance of thoughtful and considered evaluation.

The prologue sets the tone for the rest of the work, indicating a focus on historical reflection, moral lessons, and the importance of learning from the past, all conveyed with a sense of humility and duty.