Rodzinny i społeczny kontekst twórczości Wacława Nałkowskiego

Abstract

The author reveals previously unknown details of the Nałkowskis’ family life which affected the development of Wacław’s character and his interests. These details were also decisive as factors which influenced his scientific and social commitment. Social relationships of his parents and their affinities were also analyzed in order to explain the origins of his worldview. Wacław’s combative nature was already developed in the Russian school, where every symptom of Polish patriotism as well as all forms of free thought were punished. Many questions concerning Nałkowski’s activities can be explained by his experiences from his student days and by the atmosphere at home, where most of his works were written, and where numerous debates and meetings with the representatives of the Polish scientific and patriotic circles were held. The article was composed with the use of the unique source materials collected in the Nałkowskis’ Family Museum in Wołomin, and the memoires of Zofia Nałkowska, the well-known writer and scientist’s daughter.