October 24

Dorothea von Schlegel was born in 1763 into an intellectual Jewish family in Berlin. After converting to Christianity, she married the philosopher Friedrich von Schlegel, becoming a central figure in German Romantic circles. She hosted literary salons that drew writers, philosophers, and artists, fostering intellectual exchange. Von Schlegel translated works by authors such as Laurence Sterne and Edward Young into German, influencing the reception of English literature. Her own writings included essays and journal entries reflecting on art, culture, and philosophy. She remained an important connector among Romantic thinkers until her death in 1839.

Sarah Josepha Hale (1788–1879) was an influential American writer, poet, and editor. She wrote the famous nursery rhyme "Mary Had a Little Lamb" in 1830. As editor of the Ladies’ Magazine and later Godey’s Lady’s Book, she shaped American literary tastes for decades. Hale led a successful campaign to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday, persuading presidents and Congress. She also advocated for women’s education and helped found Vassar College. Her editorial leadership provided a platform for emerging women writers in the 19th century. Hale’s work left a lasting impact on American culture and holiday traditions.

Massimo d’Azeglio (1798–1866) was an Italian nobleman, writer, and political leader. He served as Prime Minister of Sardinia-Piedmont from 1849 to 1852, promoting moderate liberal reforms. D’Azeglio was a key figure in the Italian unification movement, advocating constitutional monarchy. Alongside his political career, he published historical novels that celebrated Italian history and identity. An accomplished painter, he captured landscapes and scenes from his travels with a Romantic style. D’Azeglio’s multifaceted contributions helped shape the cultural and political landscape of 19th-century Italy.

Alexandra David-Néel was a pioneering explorer and writer who devoted her life to studying Eastern religions and Tibetan culture. Born in Brussels in 1868, she traveled extensively through Asia, mastering Buddhist philosophy and meditation practices. In 1924, she became the first Western woman to visit the forbidden city of Lhasa, disguising herself as a Tibetan pilgrim. She documented her journeys in influential books such as 'Magic and Mystery in Tibet' and 'My Journey to Lhasa'. Her work introduced Western audiences to Tibetan Buddhism and inspired future generations of spiritual seekers. David-Néel lived to the age of 100, passing away in 1969 in France.

Alice Perry was an Irish civil engineer and poet who made history as one of the first women in Europe to qualify in engineering. Born in 1885 in Galway, she graduated from Queen's College Galway in 1906 with a first-class degree in engineering, later becoming the first woman to hold a municipal engineering position in Ireland. Perry designed and managed public works, contributing to urban infrastructure projects. In addition to her engineering career, she had a passion for poetry and wrote verses that were published in local journals. Her dual talents in technical and creative fields marked her as a pioneer for women in STEM and the arts. After retiring from engineering, she continued to write until her death in 1969. Perry's achievements continue to inspire women pursuing careers in engineering and literature.

Brenda Ueland was born in 1891 in Minneapolis and became a prolific journalist and critic for various American newspapers and magazines. She taught creative writing and passionately encouraged writers to embrace their individuality and imagination. In 1938, she published 'If You Want to Write,' a collection of essays that became a beloved guide for aspiring authors. Ueland also wrote biographies, children's stories, and magazine articles over a career spanning more than six decades. She was known for her wit, warmth, and dedication to nurturing creativity in others. Ueland passed away in 1985 at the age of 93, leaving a lasting impact on the literary community.

Born in 1894 in the Bengal Presidency, Bibhutibhushan Mukhopadhyay became a prominent figure in Bengali literature. He authored novels, poetry, and plays that often depicted rural life and social issues in Bengal. His engaging storytelling and lyrical prose won him acclaim among readers of all ages. Mukhopadhyay also wrote essays and articles on literary criticism and culture. He was an active member of literary circles and influenced generations of Bengali writers. Throughout his life, he championed education and the arts in his community. He died in 1987, leaving a rich literary legacy.

Moss Hart (1904–1961) was a legendary American playwright and theater director whose collaborations with George S. Kaufman produced Broadway classics such as "You Can’t Take It with You" (which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1937) and "The Man Who Came to Dinner." Hart’s sharp wit and keen insight into American life helped transform modern American theater. He also directed and adapted works for film, including the musical adaptation of "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes." His memoir, "Act One," remains a beloved account of his rise from humble beginnings to theatrical stardom. Hart’s influence extended to mentoring emerging playwrights and shaping the Broadway landscape for decades. His innovative staging and comedic timing continue to inspire theater practitioners worldwide.

Bob Kane (1915–1998) revolutionized the comic book industry by co-creating the iconic character Batman. His collaboration with Bill Finger led to one of the most enduring superheroes in popular culture. Kane's distinct art style and storytelling helped define the Golden Age of Comics. Beyond Batman, he worked on numerous other characters and served as a mentor to younger artists. His influence continues to shape comics, films, and merchandise worldwide.

Marghanita Laski (1915–1988) was an accomplished English journalist, critic, and author. She wrote novels, short stories, and essays that explored human relationships and ethical dilemmas. As a contributor to The New Statesman and other publications, her reviews and articles influenced public discourse. Laski was also a passionate advocate for civil liberties and humanitarian causes. Her versatile writing style and sharp intellect earned her a lasting literary reputation.

Doreen Tovey (1918–2008) charmed readers with her witty and affectionate tales of feline and canine companionship. Her series of memoirs, including the beloved 'Cats in Colour', offered delightful anecdotes about her pets and rural English life. Tovey's warm humor and keen observations endeared her to animal lovers worldwide. She wrote more than a dozen books and contributed articles to various magazines. Her legacy lives on through generations of readers who find joy in her animal stories.

Denise Levertov (1923-1997) was a British-born American poet celebrated for her evocative and socially conscious poetry. After moving to the United States in 1948, she published her first collection, 'The Double Image,' in 1949, establishing her distinctive voice. Her work often intertwined themes of nature, spirituality, and political activism, particularly during the Vietnam War era. Levertov wrote over thirty poetry collections and received numerous awards, including the Shelley Memorial Award. As a mentor and teacher, she influenced a generation of poets. Levertov's innovative use of free verse and her impassioned voice continue to resonate in contemporary poetry.