Subject
Hungarian literature -- History and criticism Books
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Emil Reich
Hungarian literature : $b An historical & critical survey
"Hungarian Literature: An Historical & Critical Survey" by Emil Reich is a scholarly examination of Hungarian literature written in the late 19th century. This work aims to provide an in-depth historical overview and critical analysis of the significant movements, prominent figures, and cultural developments within Hungarian literature. The author's intention is also to illuminate the unique traits of Hungarian literary expression within a broader European context, making it informative for readers unfamiliar with Magyar literary traditions. At the start of the survey, Reich emphasizes the lack of recognition of Hungary's rich literary history in the Anglophone world, despite the nation’s long-standing political and cultural significance in Europe. He discusses the historical context of the Magyars and their struggle to maintain cultural identity amid foreign influences. The opening chapters explore the early development of Hungarian literature, touching upon its oral traditions and the challenges posed by political upheavals and foreign domination. Additionally, Reich outlines the evolution of the Hungarian language, highlighting its distinctiveness and potential for literary creativity. Overall, the initial portion sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of Hungary’s literary achievements and contributions, addressing both the challenges and triumphs of its writers through the ages.
Aladár Schöpflin
Magyar írók: Irodalmi arcképek és tollrajzok
"Magyar írók: Irodalmi arcképek és tollrajzok" by Aladár Schöpflin is a collection of literary portraits and sketches written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the lives and contributions of notable Hungarian writers, exploring their significance in the context of Hungarian literature and society. Through these essays, Schöpflin reflects on the dynamic nature of literary development in Hungary, drawing attention to the societal influences that shape literary expression. The opening of the text presents the author's preface, in which Schöpflin outlines the origins of the essays compiled in this collection. He explains that these pieces were initially written for literary magazines and occasions such as the anniversaries or deaths of significant writers. The preface offers insights into his perspectives on literature, emphasizing its organic connection to national life and urging a more profound understanding of the writers' individual experiences and societal contexts. Schöpflin articulates his desire to bridge the gaps between different generations of writers, suggesting that understanding and appreciating these relationships is essential for the appreciation of Hungarian literature as a whole.
Pál Gyulai
Birálatok, 1861-1903
"Birálatok, 1861-1903" by Pál Gyulai is a collection of literary critiques written in the late 19th century. The text showcases Gyulai's reflections and analyses of various Hungarian literary works, offering insights into prose and poetry from that period. This critical compilation covers a wide array of topics, highlighting both the merits and shortcomings of the works discussed, revealing the evolution of Hungarian literature during its time. At the start of the work, the author introduces the themes and focuses of his critiques through a detailed table of contents, which lists various literary pieces, authors, and specific critiques. Among the first critiques explored is an adaptation of Jerrold Douglas's “Mrs. Caudle’s Curtain Lectures,” rewritten as “Kukliné prédikácziói.” Gyulai humorously portrays the character of Kukliné, who incessantly lectures her husband about trivial issues, creating a vivid depiction of domestic life through wit and satire. These opening reflections set the stage for a broader examination of the literary landscape, showcasing Gyulai's analytical style and his opinions on the state of Hungarian literature at the time.
Frigyes Karinthy
Irások irókról: Kritikák
"Irások irókról: Kritikák" by Frigyes Karinthy is a collection of literary critiques written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the analysis of various writers and their contributions to literature, likely reflecting the intellectual currents of the time during and after World War I. The book dives into themes of poetry, philosophy, and the essence of writing, exploring the depths of literary expression through the lens of notable authors. At the start of the text, Karinthy presents a critical examination of the works of poet Dezső Kosztolányi, particularly his piece "A szegény kisgyermek panasza." The critique emphasizes the metaphysical nature of Kosztolányi's writing, suggesting that the child symbolizes a profound understanding of existence that transcends the mundane. Karinthy illustrates how the child's perspective holds deeper truths about reality, innocence, and the relationship between memory and experience. Through this analysis, the opening portion sets a contemplative tone for the collection, highlighting the intricate connections between literature and the human condition.
Aladár Schöpflin
Írók, könyvek, emlékek
"Írók, könyvek, emlékek" by Aladár Schöpflin is a collection of literary reflections and critical essays likely written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the profound impact of Hungarian poets on national identity and youth, particularly focusing on figures like Sándor Petőfi. Schöpflin explores how these literary voices shaped the emotional landscapes and ideals of their contemporaries. The opening of the text presents a nostalgic recollection of the pivotal moment the author experienced while reading Petőfi's poetry as a young student. This encounter sparked a deep appreciation for poetry, suggesting a universal theme of how literature influences youth and societal values. Schöpflin emphasizes Petőfi's remarkable ability to resonate with young readers, addressing how his verses unlocked new emotional and intellectual realms. This initial section sets the tone for a broader examination of literary figures and their societal significance, framing the role of the poet as not just an artist but as a vital force in shaping the national character.
Ferenc Herczeg
Tanulmányok I.
"Tanulmányok I." by Ferenc Herczeg is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The volume gathers reflective studies and portraits, chiefly of Hungarian political leaders and the national character. Its opening centers on Count István Tisza, examining his career, convictions, and the fierce loyalties and hatreds he inspired. Overall it reads as sharp historical and moral profiles that use individual lives to probe Hungary’s fate. The opening of the collection presents a long portrait of Count István Tisza within an “Arcképek – Vezérek” section. The author sketches Tisza’s Calvinist gentry roots at Geszt, his puritan discipline and horse‑centered country life, and contrasts his uncompromising, leaderly nature with his father Tisza Kálmán’s flexible political craft. He then follows the public career: rise from 1886 MP to the 1903 premiership, the struggle to end parliamentary obstruction, the 1904 house‑rules clash and 1905 defeat, a return to power, the 1912 crackdown as House Speaker amid violence and a failed assassination, and leadership through the Balkan crisis. Using diplomatic documents, the author emphasizes that Tisza initially opposed a war on Serbia and accepted conflict only conditionally, out of duty rather than bellicosity. The narrative proceeds to his 1917 exit, brief front‑line command, his October 1918 admission that the war was lost, and his murder during the Aster Revolution, followed by a posthumous hero cult. A companion piece, “Tisza István az ember,” shifts to character: his fierce sense of “magyarság,” love of horses and folk music, austerity, vigor, loyalty and kindness, and an unsentimental, commanding masculinity the author sees as mirroring Hungary’s best traits.
Ferenc Herczeg
Tanulmányok II.
"Tanulmányok II." by Ferenc Herczeg is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The volume gathers sharp political and cultural commentaries that scrutinize postwar Hungary and prominent contemporary figures, blending nationalist critique with broader reflections on Europe’s moral drift. Readers should expect forceful polemics about the 1918–1919 upheavals, portraits of politicians and thinkers, and comparative meditations on violence, justice, and civilization. The opening of the volume launches with a blistering attack on Károlyi Mihály’s memoirs, portraying them as self-justifying propaganda and blaming Károlyi and Jászi Oszkár for ideological blindness, the disarmament of Hungary, and the ensuing national calamities. It argues that their anti‑national radicalism and misplaced faith in the Entente undermined the country while scorning traditional institutions. The next essays turn to Gandhi via Romain Rolland’s portrait, praising Gandhi’s moral authority, non‑violence, and non‑cooperation, contrasting them with Europe’s militaristic hypocrisy and the British repression in India. Herczeg then applies this critique to Europe’s spiritual decay, debating violence versus non‑violence and concluding that while non‑violence is nobler and tactically potent, nations may still be driven to force in self‑defense. The section closes by beginning a reading of H. G. Wells’s William Clissold, using its disenchanted narrator to indict the failure of postwar “reconstruction” and the hollowness of institutions like monarchy, parliament, and army in a civilization that has not learned to organize a humane life.
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