The role of cardinal protectors of the Polish Crown in embassies of obedience in the 16th century. preparations for missions, ceremonies and diplomacy
Author(s)
Michał Hirsch
Date Issued
2022
Type
article
Volume
5
Start Page
251
End Page
276
Journal
Abstract
Ever since the Middle Ages, embassies of obedience were sent to Rome to take an oath of fidelity to the pope on behalf of Catholic rulers. In the 16th century it became a courtesy visit and a pretext to pursue political goals. Most importantly, such missions had a huge propaganda significance and served as an opportunity to manifest the power of a kingdom and its ruler in Rome. Every embassy of obedience was received in Rome in accordance with the same principles of the papal ceremonial. The organisation of a mission sent to the pope was a very complicated undertaking. Meeting all the requirements for obedience envoys was a major challenge and required the support of the Holy See. Polish monarchs did not keep permanent representatives in Rome, so cardinal protectors of Poland were the key figures during embassies of obedience. Taking care of the representatives of rulers and making sure that they were appropriately introduced and honoured at the papal court were some of the basic duties of cardinal protectors. Their care was visible at every stage of such an embassy, which is reflected by the parts of this paper. The first part is devoted to the protectors’ participation in preparing an embassy before leaving for Rome; the second part presents the cardinals’ contribution to the ceremonial part of the embassy; the third part describes the assistance that protectors provided to envoys in relation to their diplomatic activity.
Subjects
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EEHR 5-2022 Hirsch.pdf
Size
2.62 MB
Format
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