Cmentarnicy. O "Janku Cmentarniku" Władysława Syrokomli i "Sylwku Cmentarniku" Elizy Orzeszkowej

ENThe article analyses two works by W. Syrokomla and E. Orzeszkowa ("Janko Cmentarnik" and "Sylwek Cmentarnik" accordingly) in an attempt to determine the similarities and differences in inspirations behind these texts. The research is based on the assumption that Orzeszkowa’s work somehow polemicized with Syrokomla, whose text she must have known before. Despite their similarity shown in the titles, Syrokomla’s tale and Orzeszkowa’s novel differently interpret the situation of the characters deprived of their family home. Both protagonists associate their existence with the cemetery – understood literally and metaphorically as a diagnosis of the society consumed by the deterioration of collective memory or social relations. Also, the characters uncover different aspects of childhood and its role in human life. Both works under discussion can be considered a kind of modern elegy centred on an anti-hero. Key words: W. Syrokomla (L. Kondratowicz), E. Orzeszkowa, Janko Cmentarnik, Sylwek Cmentarnik, Polish literature, 19th century. [From the publication]