The simulacrum of St. Theresa of Avila in Polish Carmelitan poetry from the XVIII century

Abstract

The following article presents a reception of St. Theresa of Avila’s works and doctrine in Polish Carmelitan poetry from the XVIII century. The Polish nuns repeatedly gave the sing of deep knowledge of her output. Their songs present laud of St. Theresa, submit her greatness and are accolade and tribute to her. The songs of Polish authors, dedicated to St. Theresa, also represent intimate and liaison dialogue with God. The characteristic traits of carmelitan songs were emotionally tense, full of poetic display as well as simplicity of sign, and therefore providing a substitute for the inability of finding adequate words to describe mystical experiences.