Chronicon Livoniae written by Henry of Livonia is considered by historians to be the most important written source for the history of early Catholic missions and crusades in the lands along the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea at the turn of the 12th and 13th centuries. The paper will pay particular attention to the events described in Book III, i.e. the Christianization of Livonia in the years 1199-1208, first by the German clergy, and then by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword with the support of German colonists. Both peaceful methods (through the living word, preached directly or through interpreters) and martial methods (attack, deception, taking prisoners and hostages) were used. It is worth mentioning the interesting attempt, recorded by Henry of Livonia, to use theatrical art to strengthen the faith of converted Livonians. The speech will also address terminology issues, the translation of which into Polish was a challenge for the translator.
