Description

János Arany (1817–1882) was a Hungarian poet, writer, translator, and journalist, often called the "Shakespeare of ballads." He wrote over 102 ballads translated into more than 50 languages and is well-known for the Toldi trilogy. Born in Nagyszalonta, Kingdom of Hungary, he was the youngest of ten children but one of only two to survive childhood. Arany studied at the Reformed College of Debrecen, briefly joined an acting troupe, and later worked as a teacher, newspaper editor, and clerk. His writing won acclaim, notably with "Az elveszett alkotmány," and he formed a close friendship with Sándor Petőfi. Arany's daughter’s death in 1865 led to a hiatus in his poetry until he began the Őszikék cycle in 1877. He died in Budapest in 1882.

Arany translated three of Shakespeare's plays into Hungarian, producing some of the finest translations in the language. His epic poetry, such as "The Death of King Buda," shapes the popular view of Hungarian history. Notable works include "A Walesi Bárdok" and "Dante," the latter praised for its profound reflection on human life. Arany's legacy endures, ranking him among Hungary's greatest poets alongside Sándor Petőfi, Endre Ady, Miklós Radnóti, and Attila József.

Engraver: Vilmos Király