The Past in the Present. The Modern Reception of Polishness in Piedmont

Abstract

Research into the Polish presence in Piedmont is an under-recognized and poorly documented area. The first Polish–Piedmont contacts began to take shape already during the Renaissance. Nevertheless, a very small number of Polish researchers focused on this area. A study carried out by the author shows the dual nature of the modern reception of the Polish past in Piedmont. On one hand, there are monuments commemorating the Polish and Italian struggle for independence during the last two centuries. On the other, Italian Slavists point out their achievements in Italian culture, especially in literature and humanities . Nowadays, this Polonophile activity is important for the sustaining and continuous creation of mutual contacts. It is also indicative of the contemporary Italian interest in Polish culture and language. Moreover, it helps to strengthen the positive reception of the Polish presence in Piedmont.