Sándor Endrődi
Magyar népballadák (Magyar remekirók 55. kötet)
"Magyar népballadák" by Sándor Endrődi is a collection of Hungarian folk ballads compiled in the early 20th century. This anthology gathers a variety of traditional narrative songs, reflecting the rich history and cultural significance of Hungarian folklore. The collection likely includes themes of love, tragedy, and heroism, often centered around characters from Hungarian history or folklore, exemplifying the depth of emotional and historical storytelling inherent in these ballads. The opening portion introduces the historical context of Hungarian folk ballads, noting the previous lamentation regarding the scarcity of epic songs in Hungarian poetry prior to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It mentions key figures in the collection process, highlighting their contributions to the preservation and revival of this art form. Furthermore, it emphasizes the rich, dramatic qualities of the ballads, described as compact and vigorous, often dealing with intense topics such as betrayal, love, and historical events. The introduction sets the tone for the subsequent ballads, which are filled with cultural resonance and deep emotional currents.