Tłum na krakowskim Rynku w epoce staropolskiej

CROWD IN MAIN MARKET SQUARE IN KRAKOW IN THE OLD POLISH PERIOD Having compared written sources dating back to the Old Polish period, the author has attempted at a characterization of crowds gathering in Kraków’s Main Market Square (Rynek Główny). An analysis of excerpts from source materials points to changeability of the crowd’s attitudes, hence the division of the study of its properties into subchapters showing bipolarity of the crowd’s emotions: Between Compulsion and Spontaneity, Insubordination and Obedience, From Generosity to Cupidity, Courage and Cowardice. Vivid descriptions passed down by chroniclers and memorialists well reflect the atmosphere of ceremonious events in Main Market Square as well as offer a reflection of the Old Polish cultural system.