Adam Mickiewicz, Pan Tadeusz, 1882

Publisher: H. Altenberg's Bookstore
Condition: Used
Language of publication: Polish
Cover type: Hardback
Dimensions: 27 x 36 cm
Number of pages: 294
Weight: 3.114 kg

Dirty, rubbed and peeling binding, peeling spine, soiled, yellowed and stained pages

Publisher: H. Altenberg's Bookstore
Condition: Used
Publisher's language: Polish
Cover type: Hardback
Dimensions: 27 x 36 cm
Number of pages: 294
Weight: 3.114 kg

Pan Tadeusz is one of the most important works of Polish literature. Written in thirteen-paragraphs by Adam Mickiewicz, the epic tale of the Polish nobility of the early 19th century was first published in two volumes in 1834 in Paris by Aleksander Jełowiecki. The 1882 edition was illustrated by painter and illustrator Michal Elviro Andriolli, which add depth and visual charm to Mickiewicz's work.
At the center of the plot is the conflict between the Soplica and Horeszko families, which has its roots in old disputes and disagreements. The key character is Jacek Soplica, father of the titular Tadeusz, who fell in love with Eve Horeszkówna in his youth, but their love was thwarted by social differences and ambitions. Jacek, as a result of dramatic events, becomes an emissary and, as Father Robak, tries to redeem his guilt and fight for the freedom of the Fatherland. The work of Adam Mickiewicz is not only a love story and a tale of noble conflicts, but also a profound reflection on the fate of Poland and Poles. The author masterfully portrays the beauty of Lithuanian nature, describing picturesque landscapes, forests, meadows and rivers. His language is full of poetic descriptions that capture the spirit of the era and the feelings of the characters. Also important to the book are numerous scenes of customs, such as hunting, feasts and the daily life of the Polish nobility.