„A to tak prędko kaleczeję, jako źrebiec po starym ojcu…” Późne tacierzyństwo Jana Zamoyskiego i jego relacje z synem Tomaszem
“I am declining fast, like a foal fathered by an old horse...” Jan Zamoyski’s Late Fatherhood and His Relationship with His Son Tomasz

Summary/Abstract: April 1st, 1594, saw the birth of Tomasz Zamoyski, the long-awaited heir to the name and fortuneof the chancellor and Grand Hetman of the Crown Jan Zamoyski, born of his fourth wife, Barbaranée Tarnowska. In view of the fact that Jan Zamoyski’s numerous offspring born from previous marriagesdied early in his life, he had undoubtedly lost faith in ever being able to sire a healthy male child.The birth of Tomasz undoubtedly filled the chancellor with joy and hope, but fatherhood itself, especiallyat such a late age (he was 52 when Tomasz was born), was probably not something he intendedto devote himself unreservedly, especially since at that time he was actively involved in the politicallife of the country. These circumstances were not conducive to building a close relationship betweenfather and son. Jan Zamoyski took care of the proper education of Tomasz, provided him with connectionsat the royal court, and finally left him a huge fortune. Yet in all these actions it is difficult todetect feelings that should unite parent and child. Zamoyski’s relationship with his son resembledthat of a demanding preceptor with a diligent student, the latter throughout his life trying to live upto an unattainable model.

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