Oczy twórcy. Petra Haliny Bielińskiej i Marii Krüger

Abstract

The author of the article interprets the novel Petra written by sisters Halina Bielińska and Maria Krüger. The novel was published in 1957 (but written during World War II). Its action takes place in the 15th century and tells about a talented teenage poet who, disguised as a boy, studies at the Jagiellonian University. The author of the article, however, does not discuss the issue of swapping social roles but draws attention to the eyes of the main character – their expression, look, the way in which Petra perceives the world. These are the eyes of a genius, a poet-artist and, at the same time, the eyes of a distrustful, intelligent child who has never had contact with other children. As the heroine grows up her eyes change their expression. Initially, the look of her blue eyes is cold and mocking but an accidental meeting with priest Jan from Kęty makes Petra realize that her perception of the world is extraordinary and that she does not have to reject her poetic talent which determines her identity.