RELIGIOUS FREEDOM AND RELATIONS BETWEEN SPIRITUAL AND SECULAR AUTHORITIES IN THE CHRONICLE BY VINCENTIUS KADŁUBEK

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Aim: The main research objective was to present the constitutional (state) thought in the light of „The Polish Chronicle” by Wincenty Kadłubek. The specific aim was to analyze the relationship between spiritual and secular power in the source. Methods: This article employed an analytical-synthetic method of subject literature supplemented by a historical-legal method. Results: The conclusions drawn from the research indicate that according to the chronicler, the beginning of the legal order of the state before the adoption of Christianity was established by Krak. On the other hand, the second beginning of the legal order falls during the reign of Bolesław the Brave. The foundations of law arise, on the one hand, from customary law, the reforming canon law, and the rediscovered Roman law. Conclusion: Master Wincenty introduces the term „Rzeczpospolita” as an order, a legal-public system. It is represented by centers of spiritual and state power and accepted by the population as just, defining its historical existence and remaining its common good. This chronicler speaks of the beginnings of Polish law in terms of state legislation and regulation of public order by the monarchy. For the first time, Wincenty Kadłubek's political-legal thought establishes the fundamental principles of popular sovereignty, where the source of power is the people conceived as the entirety of all citizens. Originality: The originality of the article is evidenced by the results of scientific research or conclusions drawn from information gathered in the form of a review of previously published works of one's own authorship and others of a theoretical or analytical nature on this issue. Keywords: The Polish Chronicle, Wincenty Kadłubek, religious freedom, power in the Middle Ages