„Podróż na diable”

The author presents one of many religo-moral texts written in region of medieval Russia. It is a short story about the journey of archbishop Joan of Nowogród on the back of the devil to Jerusalem. This work is one of many stories dedicated to the famous Nowogród Władyka, who is also recognised by the Eastern Orthodox Church as a saint. Joan is a historical figure, the first archbishop of the Nadilmeńsk Republic, renowned above all during the invasion of Nowogród in 1170 by the Prince of Northeastern Russia, when he supposedly with the help of the Icon of Bogurodzica saved Gród from defeat. His personage and growing cult following was used in the republic in the XV century, the period of intense activity in Moscow, to successfully attempt to subdue the remaining lands in Russia to his will. Joan became a symbol of the invincibility and independence of Nowogród. „Povest” o putesestvii Joanna novogordskogo na bese” is a work which form a literary point of view is similar the story of „Patrick of Kiev” and peasant folklore and fables. Its main aim was to show the readers religious motives which should fortify and teach. Joan Władyka is a saint, who not only defied the devil but also above all did not lose faith in God’s justice and protection. God, unquestionably the main hero in the stories, was shown as a fair judge, who admittedly experienced only by the chosen few, but at the same time never abandons those that unconditionally trust in his protection. While the devil, the main perpetrator of schemes, was to remain defeated, because he is never able to successfully oppose the Creator, who can always count on the loyalty of his servants.