XVI century tea: quick book review
I have recently read a fantastic book who was published this year, 2023. It is called the “War bride” and is published in Lithuanian. I am writing this review in order to share some fascinating quotes from XVI century life. It is a true story of imprisoned Swedish and Lithuanian Royals in a Finnish castle; battles between Polish-Lithuanian Kingdom and Russia; it describes daily lives of several powerful European dynasties.
Perhaps the book will be translated, published internationally some day.
> Polish King and Grand Duke of Lithuania Zygimantas Senasis (1466–1548).
>> His wife Bona Sforza (Milan, Italy).
>> His son Zygimantas Augustas.
>>>His wife Barbora Radvilaite — all time Lithuanian royal favourite, however, unfortunately, her life ended early and tragically; and her family members from the Radvila / Radziwill dynasty.
>>>His wife after Barbora from the Habsburg dynasty.
>>>His daughter Kotryna, Zygimantas sister (and few other children).
>>>Her (Kotryna) husband Jonas III Vasa / Wasa from the Swedish Royal dynasty. King Gustav I (1496–1560).
Some other stories are related to the German Prince Albrecht (1527) and relatives in Sweden.
It’s 1555. Stockholm, The Kingdom of Sweden.
All Stockholm gathers to look at the “elephant”. Newly, less than a year ago, Swedish built warship is now ready for a battle with Moscow. It’s bronze cannons are shining in the sun.
You can get carried away looking at different, stunning Vasa warship pictures available online.
1562. Midnight at Radvila palace in Vilnius.
Silence takes over the palace, however, for Radvila Juodasis (the Black) it’s just the perfect work time. On his desk — a pile of documents. He needs to read them all and does so with pleasure. He loves it when he is alone and can concentrate better.
Russian tsar Ivan IV sends greetings and presents to the King. The King, who does not recognize the title anywhere, thanks the messenger politely, but continues with his cold attitude.
<…>
I heard that (tsar) is horribly promiscuous, keeping an army of prostitutes in Kremlin. Moreover, a rapist, who likes to kidnap and abuse ladies, especially of royal origin. Oh my God, my holiness!
The book describes further, why the messenger arrived and what they tried to gain. I am not going to spoil the book here.
Jonas is speaking in a beautiful Latin language, thanking Zygimantas Augustas and thanking God for meeting Kotryna, promising to take care of her till the end of time.
The daily life. They were speaking Latin internationally and there are plenty of religious, God references.
Zygimantas Augustas is already openly chasing cupids, looking for a new wife, who would resemble Barbora at least a bit.
In fact, their tragic love story is very famous in Lithuania and continues to inspire various creators, who keep re-creating it.
Radvila’s wife is greeting guests in Vilnius. We have an upper and lower castles, gardens and fountains, surrounded by sculptures, exotic plants. This is the main residence and we have few more in Vilnius.
In case of war with Moscow, as you forecast, you will need to decide — whose interests are more important. I cannot understand, why a Queen, an emperor’ daughter, educated and not a stupid lady, would allow herself to say this. <…> Nobody pays attention to her anymore and the King decides to listen to glorious Lithuanian war songs.
<…>
King Gustav loves the impudent admiral’s plan — it’s time to teach tsar a lesson. He smiles and pats admiral on his shoulder.
<…>
Kotryna and Jonas, surrounded by Finnish soldiers are travelling.
(Tsar) Now, birdie, I got you. You will be a maid and wash my bedroom floors. I’ll send soldiers to kidnap you with your jewels; your husband can go elsewhere.
Again, we have a display of emotions from both sides.
We have connected 2 powerful dynasties, on different sides of the Baltic sea. We will unite against our common enemy — tsar Ivan.
It’s enough of wars and stealing other’s land.
Let there be peace, growth and happy children.
Nemo nisi mors
