Justyna Gałuszka

Jakub Sobieski’s Speech at the Funerals of Stanisław, Jan and Regina Żółkiewski as an Example of 17th-Century Oratory – Source Edition
The 17th-century funeral ceremonies included occasional speeches given by a close relative, friend, or acquaintance, which supplemented the preachers’ sermons. The paper is a discussion and critical source edition of Jakub Sobieski’s (1590–1646) speeches on three representatives of the Żółkiewski family: Stanisław (1547–1620), Jan (d. 1623), and Regina (1566–1624). Sobieski was considered one of the best orators of his time. He was oft en invited to various events, which he honoured with his speeches. Those delivered at Żółkiewskis’ funerals strike with their depth and show the tragedy of this family, but at the same time they display Sobieski’s oratorical skills, education, and erudition. They also emphasize the genealogical relations between the Sobieski and Żółkiewski families. They capture a portrait of a tragic family: an image of a great hetman, who heroically defended his homeland in advanced age, a son who imitated the actions of his father, and a virtuous mother and wife—three models worthy of distinction and praise.

The land court judge from Przemyśl, Walenty Orzechowski – a forgotten hero of the Sejm in Lublin of 1569

The article remembers a judge from Przemyśl, Walenty Orzechowski (ca. 1527–1588), a highly regarded representative of the nobility of the Ruthenian Province at general assemblies. He repeatedly acted on behalf of the nobility, as exponent of their interests. Yet he remained in the shadow of his better known and controversial cousin Stanisław (1513–1566), a historian, author of political writings, orator and opponent of celibacy.

Keywords: Sejm in Lublin, Polish-Lithuanian Union of Lublin, Walenty Orzechowski, Ruthenian Province, sejmik (assembly) in Vyshnia (Wisznia)