January 19

Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey, was a leading figure in the English Renaissance, born in 1516 to the powerful Howard family. He is credited with introducing the sonnet form and blank verse to English literature, profoundly influencing poets like Shakespeare. Surrey served in military campaigns in France and Scotland, earning respect for his valor and leadership. Despite his contributions to culture, he was implicated in political intrigues against King Henry VIII and executed for treason in 1547. His published poems, including translations and original compositions, secured his reputation as one of the era’s finest poets. Surrey’s innovative verse structures laid the groundwork for the development of English poetic forms for centuries to come.

Born in Nuremberg in 1494, Hans Sachs trained as a shoemaker but rose to fame as a Meistersinger (master singer). Over his lifetime he composed over 6000 poems, plays, dialogues, and master songs, blending humor with moral and religious themes. A supporter of Martin Luther, he used his writing to champion the Protestant Reformation and critique social ills. His blend of popular verse and dramatic pieces influenced German literature and folk traditions. Sachs's life and work later inspired Richard Wagner's opera 'Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg'.

Born in 1670 in Yorkshire, William Congreve studied at Trinity College Dublin before making his mark in London theater. His debut play, 'The Old Bachelor' (1693), was a critical and commercial success, establishing him as a leading dramatist of the era. He followed with acclaimed works including 'Love for Love' (1695) and his masterpiece 'The Way of the World' (1700), famed for its wit and social satire. Congreve's dialogue, character development, and keen observations of Restoration society set a high bar for comedic drama. Later in life, he shifted focus to poetry and translations, leaving a body of work that continues to be celebrated for its elegance and humor. He died on January 19, 1729, at the age of 58.

Born in Ioannina in 1772, Athanasios Christopoulos studied law and developed a passion for literature. He became a leading voice in the Greek Enlightenment, blending classical themes with contemporary concerns. His pastoral poems and satirical writings critiqued Ottoman rule and inspired national consciousness. Christopoulos championed writing in Demotic Greek, helping to shape the future of the language. His legacy endures as a foundational figure in modern Greek poetry.

Born in Buenos Aires in 1805, Esteban Echeverría studied law in Europe and was influenced by Romantic ideals. He became a leading figure in the Generation of '37, promoting liberal political ideas in Argentina. Echeverría's short story 'El Matadero' and epic poem 'Elvira' blended literary innovation with social and political themes. He returned to Argentina to oppose dictatorships and advocated for education and civil rights. His works laid the groundwork for a uniquely Argentine literary voice and inspired future generations of writers.

Born on April 2, 1798, August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben studied classical philology at the University of Breslau and the University of Berlin. He taught German literature and philology at various universities, fostering a love of folk songs and nationalism. In 1841 he penned the lyrics to the 'Deutschlandlied,' set to music by Joseph Haydn. His patriotic poetry and hymns became enduring symbols of German identity, though political controversies led to periods of exile. Fallersleben died in 1874, remembered as a passionate advocate for cultural unity and scholarly rigor.

Born in 1864 in Belgrade, Branislav Nušić served in the Serbian army before turning to literature and theater. He became one of the most popular dramatists in Serbia, writing comedies that humorously critiqued social norms and bureaucracy. Nušić also worked as a journalist and civil servant, experiences that informed his sharp observations of everyday life. His most famous plays, such as 'The Cabinet Minister’s Wife' and 'The Deceased,' remain staples of Serbian theater. Beyond theater, he authored short stories and satirical essays, showcasing his wit and keen insight. Nušić's work has been celebrated for its enduring relevance, and his plays continue to be performed across the Balkans. He passed away in 1938, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of modern Serbian literature.

Moritz Jahn was a German writer celebrated for his novels and lyrical poetry. He captured the essence of rural life in the Saxony region through dialect and vivid imagery. Jahn's works include the acclaimed novel 'Hanne Niß' and collections of poems. He was active in literary circles and served as president of the German PEN Center. His writings explored themes of identity, tradition, and social change. Jahn's contribution enriched 20th-century German literature with regional authenticity.

James Dickey (1923–1997) was an influential American poet and novelist whose work often explored themes of nature, violence, and redemption. He served as the U.S. Poet Laureate from 1966 to 1968 and won the National Book Award for Poetry. His bestselling novel Deliverance was adapted into a landmark 1972 film directed by John Boorman. Dickey's intense, sensory poetry and gripping prose have left a lasting mark on 20th-century American literature. He drew on his experiences as a WWII fighter pilot to craft vivid narratives that resonate with readers worldwide.

Françoise Giroud (1916–2003) was a pioneering French journalist, screenwriter, and politician who co-founded the influential weekly magazine L'Express. As a writer, her articles and books tackled social issues, women's rights, and political affairs, making her a leading voice in post-war France. In 1971, she became the first Secretary of State for Women's Affairs and later served as Minister of Culture from 1976 to 1977 under President Valéry d'Estaing. Giroud’s blend of sharp intellect, bold opinions, and commitment to social progress left an indelible mark on French media and politics. She was also celebrated for her work in film, contributing as a screenwriter to several acclaimed projects.

K. Sello Duiker was a South African author whose debut novel, Thirteen Cents, won the 2001 Sunday Times Fiction Prize. His works, including The Quiet Violence of Dreams, are celebrated for their lyrical prose and vivid portrayal of post-Apartheid Johannesburg. As a screenwriter, Duiker sought to bring South African stories to broader audiences. His writing tackled themes of alienation, identity, and social change with profound sensitivity. Despite his literary success, he struggled with mental health issues and died prematurely in 2005. Duiker's influence continues to inspire new generations of writers exploring urban narratives.

Born in Trevico, Italy, in 1931, Ettore Scola began his career as a screenwriter in the late 1950s, contributing to films by renowned Italian directors. He made his directorial debut in 1964 and went on to direct over thirty films, blending humor with sharp social commentary. Notable works include “We All Loved Each Other So Much” (1974) and “A Special Day” (1977), the latter earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Scola’s films often explored themes of friendship, politics, and the human condition within Italian society. He won numerous awards at festivals such as Cannes and Venice, and received lifetime achievement honors later in his career. Scola’s influence on Italian cinema endures through his insightful storytelling and memorable characters.