Zagadka i jej problematyka

Abstract

The riddle is among the specimens of the „simple forms” (einfache Formen) of literature. It represents the stage which can be placed on the borderline of language and literature. From the linguistic or stylistic point of view it ought to be considered nothing else but a variety of metonimy with a double meaning and sometimes with a double solution, too. This is worth remembering, for as early as the 16th century, at least, we come across a special class of amusing riddles which might be guessed in two ways, one decent but difficult to answer, and another simple and easy but obscene. More than that, the riddle differs from the other forms of metonimy inasmuch as it takes you aback by requiring from you an instant and witty solution. In this way it demonstrates its artistic aspect, that is its very nature which bids call it a typical product of art. The riddle is either international or national. The national riddles are often based on idiomatic tricks which are difficult to translate into other languages. The international ones are frequently of very archaic origin. Some of them were known in ancient Greece, others were popular in the Middle Ages. In the oral tradition of Poland there appear both the ancient and the medieval specimens. The present essay tries to introduce several kinds of riddles that developed in Poland from the Middle Ages up to the present time. They have been preserved in the old manuscripts and printed books as well as in the oral tradition. The earliest collection of Gadki, którymi rozum ludzki może być naostrzon (Riddles to sharpen people's mind) was printed in Cracow in 1552; unfortunately only eight items of it are known to us. On account of the wealth and importance of the Polish riddles they require a scholarly investigation and a critical edition.