The symbolism and educational dimension of animals in literature as seen in Juliusz Słowacki’s works
The aim of the article is to point to the educational possibilities of using Romantic literature, primarily Juliusz Słowacki’s works. The educational aspect of the attitude of humans to animals is emphasised by means of examples of the poems Ojciec zadżumionych, Poema Piasta Dantyszka and W Szwajcarii, the interpretation of which is rooted in biblical, mythological or folkloristic contexts. This method has made it possible to reveal the rich symbolism of the various species of animals: deer, roe deer, dove, sparrow, with particular emphasis being put on the possibility of using the fauna motif for educational purposes in teaching an empathic attitude to animals today. The author presents specific methodological solutions that can be used at the various stages of the education system from primary to secondary school.