Abstract

Stefan Ranatowicz CRL was a 17th century historiographer of the Canons Regular of the Lateran at the Corpus Christi Congregation in Kraków’s district of Kazimierz. His most important work is the congregation’s chronicle which lists successive provosts in the monastery. The original hand-written manuscript has survived to this day, and it is kept at the Jagiellonian Library in Kraków. In addition to the biographies of monastic superiors, the chronicle also gives a valuable account of 17th century life in Kazimierz and Kraków, their culture, customs, traditions, historical events and other topics. The chronicle lists natural disasters such as floods and fires, weather anomalies, and makes numerous references to epidemics. The descriptions of the plague and other diseases testify to the sanitation standards and the level of medical knowledge in the 17th century. The chronicle provides a timeframe for the outbreaks of the plague and other illnesses. Additional information about the severity and spread of diseases is also given. The chronicle describes local customs and the social life of Kazimierz. It discusses religious services during outbreaks – the plague was often regarded as punishment for sin. Church services were held to appease God’s wrath and reverse misfortune. Numerous pilgrimages and celebratory processions were organized, propitiatory prayers were said and penitential practices were carried out, and thanksgiving masses were celebrated after the outbreak had been contained. Intercessory prayers to the Virgin Mary, Saint Sebastian, Saint Roch and Saint Rosalia were held. These events are not depicted separately in the chronicle, and they are a part of a larger historical narrative focusing on social and state affairs. Nonetheless, the plague was undoubtedly an important topic for the author. Detailed information about specific events can be gleaned by analyzing the entire manuscript. The chronicle is not an extensive historical source, but it complements other 17th century records and throws light on the incidence of the plague and other problems faced by the residents of Kazimierz.