Wrocławski biskup Jan III Romka (†1301). Epigon czy odważny reformator?
Bishop Jan III Romka of Wrocław (†1301): An Epigone or a Spirited Reformer?

Summary/Abstract: The article is dedicated to the life and activities of a little-known personality of the Wrocław Church: Bishop Jan Romka. At the beginning, the author presents the education of the then would-be bishop. In the Middle Ages a solid education was a prerequisite to pursue a successful career and the final stage of the career ladder was the office of bishop. The following paragraphs depicts Jan Romka as a faithful clerk in the chancellery of Bishop Tomasz II, and then as his successor. The author points out Jan Romka’s weaknesses, which became apparent when he came to hold the office. Bishop’s faithfulness to meet the requirements of his office was not accompanied by courage and shrewdness. In the second part of the article, the author explores particular events and behaviors of Bishop Jan in the face of emerging disputes and conflicts with representatives of the political authorities. The analysis of the events allowed the following conclusions to be drawn: Bishop Jan Romka was properly educated for his office; in ecclesiastical and political disputes, he tried to follow in his predecessor’s footsteps and was merely an epigone in terms of both the realization of goals and adopted methods; his activities were basically limited to defending the 1290 privilege granted to the Wrocław Church.

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