Pan Tadeusz

About this work

"The national epic of Poland and touchstone of modern European literature, now in a fresh translation by award-winning translator Bill Johnston. A towering achievement in European literature, Pan Tadeusz is the central work of the Polish literary canon, heralded for its lovingly detailed recreation of a bygone world. The traditions of the Polish gentry and the social and natural landscape of the Lithuanian countryside are captured in verse of astounding beauty, simplicity, and power. Bill Johnston's translation of this seminal text allows English-language readers to experience the richness, humor, and narrative energy of the original"-- "The national epic of Poland, Pan Tadeusz is a panoramic view of early 19th century Polish provincial society. Interlacing narrative threads include the homecoming of Pan Tadeusz from his studies in the city; a feud between local families over ownership of a ruined castle; clandestine preparations for Polish participation in Napoleon's anticipated invasion of Russia; and the mystery of Father Robak, a monk whose involvement in all the different stories seems to draw them together. Written in elegant rhyming couplets, Pan Tadeusz has become ingrained in the Polish literary consciousness. It has influenced subsequent Polish literature like no other text, and is considered the last great epic poem in European literature"--