Słowa i gesty polskich Jagiellonów

ENThe article discusses political communication of the late Middle Ages and early Modern Era. What interested the author of the article is the way of addressing the subjects by the monarch and gestures that he used while conversing. The Jagiellons were very skilful in using language in political communication. A word was a medium of communication (a conversation) with the subjects, but it was also a medium containing specific content, intentions and emotions of the ruler. It was an element of the political system of the monarchy and an instrument of power. Three types of contacts and ways of direct communication of the king and the subjects were presented. The most casual and "talkative" was the king during unofficial moments, that is "private" talks and direct contact with the subjects. On official occasions the king was not that talkative, for instance in meetings with his advisers, at the sessions of Sejm, or during public audiences, etc. In such circumstances it was one of his officials that spoke on behalf of the king.Only at some moments did the ruler speak in person. Sometimes it was a manifestation of his kindness and graciousness, sometimes the uttered word was to threaten the subjects. The king was the most restrained, though, during ceremonial events, for instance during the reception of homage or coronation. At such ceremonies there was no place for spontaneity and king’s words were prepared beforehand. Words and the frequency of uttering them were dependent on the place, circumstances and time of the king’s address. It was as well significant in what way the king uttered them. So were the intonation and gestures. Sometimes he expressed his intentions and emotions via silence, which was a sign of distance between him and the subjects, and could act as a manifestation of disgrace towards the specific group. It was always the king who had the last word and it was not that easy to confer with him. The king’s word was neither to be contradicted nor questioned.