Pan Twardowski (Polish: Pan Twardowski, Polish pronunciation: [ˈpan tfarˈdɔfski]), also known as Master Twardowski (Polish: Mistrz Twardowski), is a sorcerer in Polish folklore and literature who made a deal with the Devil.[1] Twardowski sold his soul in exchange for special powers – such as being able to summon for King Sigismund Augustus the spirit of his deceased wife – and eventually met a tragic fate.
The tale of Twardowski exists in various versions, and forms the basis for many works of fiction, including the humorous ballad "Pani Twardowska" by Adam Mickiewicz.[2] The folklore is commonly assumed to have been heavily inspired by the similar German story of Faust, with which there are many parallels.
- ^ Hanna Widacka. "Legendy i fakty o Mistrzu Twardowskim". www.wilanow-palac.pl (in Polish). Retrieved 2023-02-14.
- ^ Adam Mickiewicz. "Pani Twardowska". mickiewicz.kulturalna.com (in Polish). Retrieved 2009-03-20.