Barbarian from the East. From the stereotype to the mythologization of the Russians

The text presents the transformations of the image of Russia and Russians in Polish culture throughout history (from the eighteenth century to the present day). The aim of the article is to show ways to create stereotypes and national myths in order to achieve political goals. The political context of the changes taking place in the relations of Poles and Russians and its influence on shaping the image of the eastern neighbor is shown. The subject of creating stereotypes and national autostereotypes and the mythologization of one’s own history was already discussed at the moment of current events of significant importance. The text shows the relationship between politics, identity and international relations in the context of the history and aspirations of independence of the Polish nation.