Polish Carols — Their History, Development and Importance in the National Culture: Study on Selected Examples from Different Historical Periods

Abstract

The paper on carol in Polish culture is an attempt at a brief analysis of the influence of these particular cultural products on the development of the customs associated with Christmas celebrations and the building of national culture. Carol as a musical religious piece shows the penetration of religion and art. In addition, it is often associated with folk art, close to man. It also highlights its unique dimension of unity—in the family and in the national community.

In Poland, especially folk culture, it was shaped primarily by Christian religiosity, and its influence on the development of identity and national identity is very significant. In addition, the opposite was shown—how the specific political and historical situation of Poland influenced the new Christmas carols created in specific periods and at the same time reflected in them. Only selected examples of carols were presented in the paper, which illustrate the interpenetration of religion and culture and also highlight the formation of attitude of patriotism by carol.