Lives of the Saints (Skarga)

it is estimated he based at least four-fifths of his work on the translation of Laurentius Surius De probatis Sanctorum historiis),[2] wrote this book in 1577, in order to combat the popularity of Protestant writings and advance the cause of the Counter-Reformation.

[4] In addition to its moral values, attractive to the Catholic church for its inspirational value "in edifying the faithful and refuting heretics",[2] it was also attractive to the readers due to its depiction of exotic times and locales, royal and intentional politics, as well as graphic and detailed description of tortures and suffering.

[3][4] The interest in the book waned afterward, with no new editions until the 18th century due to market saturation, changing tastes and more competition.

[5][7] Its popularity makes it a factor in preserving a Polish language literacy on the lands of partitioned Poland.

[9] Irving M. Zeitlin writes that this book "for centuries served as bedside reading for the Polish people.