| Abstrakt: |
This essay discusses collections of historical memorabilia assembled in Poland at the end of the eighteenth and the beginning of the nineteenth century, which contained the physical remains (bones and hair) of historical figures. An analysis is offered of the traditions and circumstances that made it acceptable and possible for Polish antiquaries and collectors to open the tombs of eminent historical figures and to remove the contents of graves to private collections. Emphasis is placed on the role of national trauma, brought about by the crisis of the partition of Poland, culminating in 1795 in the demise of Poland as an independent state, which provided an impetus for the development of a distinctive historical consciousness. It is argued that while objects of this kind would cause moral and other dilemmas in other countries in Europe, such concerns were absent in Poland owing to its unique situation. Attention is also paid to changing attitudes throughout the nineteenth century, which influenced both the shape of historical collections and the manner of examining the corpses of historical figures. An explanation is offered for why, in the second half of the nineteenth century, despite the continuing exploration of tombs, the practice of collecting and displaying human remains and grave goods never gained wide public approval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
