The courts of the Spanish and Austrian Habsburgs as related by Jakub Sobieski in the first half of the 17th century

Abstract

Jakub Sobieski, the father of King Jan III, was among the most outstanding Polish politicians of the first half of the 17th century. In his youth he received a thorough education, which included studies abroad and tours around Europe. In 1611-1613 he visited Germany, England, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Austria. Later, in 1638, he accompanied King Władysław IV Vasa on a journey to Baden. In both cases he wrote accounts that were subsequently printed and published.

Of particular significance among these recollections of European travels are his descriptions of the states (Spain and the Holy Roman Empire) and courts (Madrid and Vienna) of the Habsburgs. Sobieski sheds light on the rulers (Philip III, Matthias I and Ferdinand III) as well as their courtly entourage (family, ministers, clerks, diplomatic corps, informal circles of power and servants). He writes about how the courts functioned, their ceremonies and etiquette, and also about their religious life. He draws our attention to the specific features which distinguished Habsburg courts from the rest of Europe. Moreover, he reveals their role and general significance in 17th-century political reality.