Die Simulation von Souveränität in den frühneuizeitlichen Diplomatie : die moldauische Gesandtschaft am polnischen Königshof im Jahr 1644

Abstract

The chapter focuses on the episode in Polish-Moldavian diplomatic relations and the role of the ceremonial as a tool to staking the claim for sovereignty. While it is often assumed that the ceremonial treatment stemmed from the ruler’s status, the embassy of Vasile Lupu to the Polish king Vladislav IV in 1644 represents a case of inversion of this order. While the Moldavian voievode was not a sovereign ruler, his alliance with influential members of the Polish-Lithuanian elite allowed his envoys to receive treatment as if they were representing a full member of the society of princes. As the paper argues, this case of 'simulation of sovereignty' played a crucial role in the political strategy of Vasile Lupu, who through diplomatic ceremonial practices strived to be recognized as a sovereign ruler.