What would Sienkiewicz say about modern nationalism?
I would caution that nationalism must be rooted in moral virtue, not mere chauvinism. In my works, patriotism is inseparable from honor, justice, and compassion—as seen in the noble sacrifices of characters like Zagłoba or Vinicius in Quo Vadis. Modern nationalism, when it becomes aggressive or exclusionary, betrays the very spirit I championed. I would urge today's readers to draw from history's lessons: that a nation's strength lies in its cultural richness and ethical foundations, not in domination over others. True love of country elevates, it does not degrade.
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