Rhythmical and Thematic Structures in the Croatian Church Slavic <i>Life of Saint Wenceslaus</i>

The first Slavic version of the mediaeval Life St Wenceslaus (FSL) offers myriad opportunities for scholarly research on a number levels, rhetorical, stylistic and thematic. current article seeks to coordinate an understanding how formal rhythmical structures vita enhance work’s thematic material. In this regard it is shown that FSL composed in rhythmically structured prose as described R. Picchio’s theory isocolic principle patterns texts play significant role both enhancing oral performance aspects work and, turn, highlighting themes messages. Including exposition good saintly prince martyr, implied exhortation listeners follow example Christian behaviour, these theologically oriented biblically inspired leitmotifs are skilfully applied events Wenceslaus’ pious life. From rhetorical compositional point view interplay rhythms with their contrasting enhances presentation through artistic juxtapositions contrasts, parallels, disjunctions, similar devices. It concluded contrary some assessments somewhat ‘primitive’ composition, complex motifs, artfully presented.