Pasja czy misja? O wydawniczych przedsięwzięciach Adama Pługa

Abstract

The article presents Adam Pług, a now forgotten editor of the most popular periodicals of the second half of the nineteenth-century such as “Kłosy”, “Kurier Warszawski” and “Wędrowiec”. The attention is focused especially on his publishing work. Based on an analysis of the man’s individual editorial projects (Notatki z podróży do Paryża i Londynu by A. E. Odyniec, Treny A. E. Odyńca na zgon córki Antoninki i wnuczki Zosi, Wybór poezji by Władysław Syrokomla) undertaken between 1886 and 1890, it can be stated that they were, on the one hand, a result of Pług’s constant concern to protect and secure national mementoes of literary nature and, on the other, a form of commemoration of his late friends or a means to provide financially for the orphaned families of his fellow writers. As an editor, Pług was perfectly aware of his political responsibility, so he was particularly involved in popularization of the legacy of those who played a crucial role for the cultural and national identity of Poland. What’s more, he did all this under the yoke of national bondage, a deed not to be underestimated.