‘What have you been seeking in the world? Happiness?’ The Comforting Function of Comenius’ Labyrinth of the World and Paradise of the Heart

Abstract

In this study, we will observe how Jan Amos Komenský (internationally known as Comenius, which I will use in the paper) implemented his comforting intention in the work Labyrinth of the World and Paradise of the Heart. Of all the comforting writings that Comenius wrote, we will focus only on this one, and for good reason. Over time, the test proved that the Labyrinth in a unique way exceeds the other works of Comenius, and not only of this period. The fame and popularity that the Labyrinth has enjoyed for centuries - both among the lay public and experts - shows that Comenius succeeded in realizing his comforting intention in this particular work. The question is, why the Labyrinth? What is its comforting "charm"? Using a descriptive-analytical approach, I will try to show what the consolatory functionality of this work consists of.