Postać Senatora idealnego w świetle „De optimo Senatore” Wawrzyńca Goślickiego

Lawrence Goślicki, later bishop of Poznańand Senator, at the end of their studies in Italy, issued in 1568 the work De optimo senatore. In it, he describes his thoughts on the state model, the duties of authorities and, above all, sketched an ideal profile of the position of Senator perfect. Senators must come from the citizens. The right, to choose one, belongs only to the ruler. In making such a decision, he has to have regard for the physical appearance, suitable birth and financial status, intellectual condition, disposition, education, good repute and experience in public service. The decisive factor, however, remains virtue. The Senator’s task is to advise the king, and to mediate between him and the citizens. The Senator is the most important official in the country, the senator is at its heart. His most important virtue is to be prudence. He should also be guided by moderation in both public and private life. It is a model for others, a teacher of virtue. On his shoulders rests largely the wellbeing of the state.