Sources, Problems, and Prospects for a History on the Piety of Jan Długosz, with Special Reference to Liturgy

While remembered primarily as author of a landmark fifteenth- century chronicle of Polish history, Jan Długosz was also a diplomat and priest, among other occupations. This article attempts to highlight Długosz’s “piety,” in its medieval sense emphasizing the qualities of holy mercy and charity, chiefly through an examination of liturgical sources. After weighing the complexities of issues and evidence, the author concludes that a satisfactory picture of the piety of Długosz emerges, consistent with the themes and exhortations found in his historical writings.