Famous Hungarian Poets

Hannah Szenes was a Hungarian Jewish poet and a member of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during the Second World War. She was among 37 Jewish SOE recruits from Mandate Palestine sent to Yugoslavia to aid anti-Nazi forces and rescue Hungarian Jews from deportation to Auschwitz. Despite being arrested, imprisoned, and tortured, Szenes remained steadfast in protecting her mission details. She was later executed by firing squad. Szenes is revered as a national hero in Israel, where her poetry is well-known and commemorated through various tributes.

Sándor Petőfi was a prominent Hungarian poet and liberal revolutionary known for his significant contributions during the Hungarian Revolution of 1848. He is celebrated as Hungary's national poet and revered for his pivotal role in inspiring the revolution through his work, particularly the Nemzeti dal (National Song). Petőfi's influence extended to the war for independence from the Austrian Empire, where he played a crucial part. His professional life was marked by a dedication to poetry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on Hungarian history.

Attila József was a prominent Hungarian poet of the 20th century, initially underappreciated during his lifetime but later celebrated as Hungary's leading "proletarian poet" during the 1950s communist era. His work gained international recognition posthumously, solidifying his status as one of the most renowned modern Hungarian poets. József's poetic contributions have left a lasting impact on Hungarian literature, with his evocative and introspective writings resonating with audiences both in Hungary and around the world.

Ferenc Molnár, also known as Franz Molnar, was a Hungarian author, stage director, dramatist, and poet. He was Hungary's most celebrated playwright, known for his diverse influences and versatile writing style. Molnár's works spanned various genres, incorporating elements of naturalism, Neo-Romanticism, Expressionism, and Freudian psychoanalytic theories. His novel "The Paul Street Boys" and plays such as "The Devil," "Liliom," and "The Guardsman" are considered classics. Molnár's international fame led him to the United States during World War II, where he continued to produce influential works. His legacy continues to inspire playwrights worldwide.

Endre Ady was a prominent Hungarian poet and journalist known for his contributions to Hungarian literature in the early 20th century. He was highly regarded for his poetic works that delved into themes such as social progress, love, faith, and patriotism. Ady's writing reflected the modern European experience, exploring fundamental questions of the era. His steadfast belief in progress and development shone through his poetry, establishing him as a leading figure in Hungarian literary circles and solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest poets of his time.

Frigyes Karinthy was a multi-talented Hungarian author, playwright, poet, journalist, and translator. He is best known for introducing the concept of six degrees of separation in his 1929 short story, Chains (Láncszemek). Karinthy's professional life was marked by his innovative ideas and contributions to literature, including his popular science fiction novellas that explored themes such as artificial intelligence and satire. His works continue to be celebrated for their creativity and originality, solidifying his reputation as one of the most prominent Hungarian writers of his time.

Sándor Márai was a prominent Hungarian writer, poet, and journalist known for his prolific literary contributions. Throughout his career, he established himself as a respected figure in the Hungarian literary scene, gaining recognition for his insightful and emotionally charged works. Márai's writing often delved into themes of love, loss, and human relationships, captivating readers with his profound storytelling and nuanced characters. His legacy extends beyond his native Hungary, as his works have been translated into numerous languages, solidifying his place as a significant literary figure in the 20th century.

János Arany was a prominent Hungarian poet, writer, translator, and journalist known for his remarkable contributions to literature. He earned the title of the "Shakespeare of ballads" due to his extensive collection of over 102 ballads, which have been translated into numerous languages worldwide. Arany's work includes the acclaimed Toldi trilogy, showcasing his talent and versatility as a writer. Throughout his professional life, he left a lasting impact on Hungarian literature and continues to be celebrated for his poetic achievements.

Miklós Radnóti was a Hungarian poet and certified secondary school teacher of Hungarian and French. He was known for his contribution to modern Hungarian lyric poetry, emphasizing pure genre and reviving traditional forms. Radnóti's professional life was marked by his dedication to teaching and his commitment to the craft of poetry. He strived to uphold the integrity of established genres while infusing his work with a sense of innovation and creativity, leaving a lasting impact on Hungarian literature.

Dezső Kosztolányi was a prominent Hungarian writer, journalist, and translator known for his versatility in various literary genres, including poetry, essays, and theatre plays. He was also a skilled speaker of Esperanto. Kosztolányi developed a unique style by incorporating elements of French symbolism, impressionism, expressionism, and psychological realism into his works. Renowned as the father of futurism in Hungarian literature, his professional life was marked by prolific writing and a significant impact on the literary scene of his time.

Béla Balázs was a prominent Hungarian film critic, aesthetician, writer, and poet known for his contributions to formalist film theory. He played a significant role in shaping the understanding of cinema as an art form through his insightful critiques and theoretical writings. Balázs's work focused on the formal aspects of film, emphasizing its visual and narrative structures. His ideas and analyses have had a lasting impact on film studies, influencing generations of filmmakers and scholars with his innovative perspectives on the cinematic medium.

Mihály Vörösmarty was a prominent Hungarian poet and dramatist known for his significant contributions to Hungarian literature during the 19th century. He played a key role in the literary and cultural movements of the Kingdom of Hungary, advocating for national identity and language revitalization. Vörösmarty's works often reflected patriotic themes, focusing on historical events and folklore. His poetry and plays were widely acclaimed for their lyrical beauty and profound emotional depth, establishing him as a leading figure in Hungarian literature.

Géza Röhrig is a Hungarian actor and poet known for his notable performance in the acclaimed 2015 film "Son of Saul." The film earned critical acclaim and won several prestigious awards, including the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival, the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film, and the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Röhrig's portrayal in the film showcased his exceptional talent and solidified his reputation as a versatile and skilled actor within the international film industry.

Gyula Illyés was a prominent Hungarian poet and novelist known for his contributions to the népi literary movement. He focused on portraying the challenging socio-economic conditions of his homeland through his works, driven by his strong left-wing convictions. Illyés was regarded as a leading figure among the népi writers, who sought to shed light on the struggles faced by the common people. His professional life was dedicated to using literature as a tool for social commentary and raising awareness about the issues affecting Hungarian society.

György Faludy was a prominent Hungarian poet, writer, and translator known for his significant contributions to Hungarian literature. Throughout his career, Faludy produced an extensive body of work that showcased his talent and versatility in various genres. He was celebrated for his evocative poetry, thought-provoking prose, and skillful translations. His work often reflected his personal experiences and the tumultuous historical events of his time. Faludy's legacy endures through his impactful writings, which continue to resonate with readers around the world.

Imre Madách was a Hungarian aristocrat, writer, poet, lawyer, and politician known for his major work, "The Tragedy of Man" (Az ember tragédiája, 1861). This dramatic poem, approximately 4000 lines long, delves into themes akin to Goethe's Faust and Milton's Paradise Lost. Encouraged and advised by János Arany, a prominent 19th-century Hungarian poet, Madách made significant contributions to Hungarian literature through his writing and legal work. His political involvement added another dimension to his multifaceted professional life.

Mihály Babits was a prominent Hungarian poet, writer, essayist, and translator known for his profound exploration of intense religious themes in his poetry. His literary works, particularly his novel "The Children of Death" published in 1927, delved into psychological complexities with a keen focus on human emotions and struggles. Babits' contributions to Hungarian literature were significant, and his writings continue to be cherished for their deep insights into spirituality and the human condition.

Balassi Bálint was a prominent Hungarian Renaissance lyric poet known for his proficiency in nine languages. He is credited with founding modern Hungarian lyric and erotic poetry. His professional life was marked by a prolific output of literary works, predominantly in Hungarian but also in Latin, Italian, German, Polish, Turkish, Slovak, Croatian, and Romanian. Balassi Bálint's mastery of multiple languages allowed him to express his creativity and influence the development of Hungarian poetry during the Renaissance period.

Sándor Weöres was a Hungarian poet and author known for his insightful and evocative works. He began his literary career at a young age, with his poems being published in the esteemed journal Nyugat. Weöres pursued higher education in various fields before obtaining a doctorate in philosophy and aesthetics. Despite facing challenges during World War II and the period of Stalinism in Hungary, he continued to write and produce significant literary works. Weöres traveled extensively, drawing inspiration from his experiences abroad.

Lajos Kassák was a Hungarian poet, novelist, painter, essayist, editor, and theoretician of the avant-garde. He played a pivotal role in the radical intellectual culture of Budapest in the early 1900s, adopting elements of expressionism, futurism, and dadaism. Kassák's legacy was initially overshadowed by political and artistic challenges but later recognized for his contributions to the Hungarian avant-garde and modernist art scene. He engaged in literary, artistic, and political activities, founded journals, and was awarded a state medal for his significant efforts before his death in 1967.

Ferenc Kölcsey was a prominent Hungarian poet, literary critic, orator, and politician known for his advocacy of liberal ideas within Hungary's political landscape under Austrian rule. His contribution to Hungarian culture includes composing Himnusz, the national anthem of Hungary in 1823. Kölcsey's professional life was marked by his dedication to literature, criticism, and public speaking, through which he actively engaged in shaping the intellectual and political discourse of his time, leaving a lasting impact on Hungarian society and national identity.

Ferenc Kazinczy was a prominent Hungarian author, poet, translator, and neologist known for his significant role in the Language Reform of the 19th century. He played a crucial part in the regeneration of Hungarian language and literature, contributing to the coining and revival of thousands of words. His efforts helped modernize the Hungarian language, enabling it to align with scientific advancements and eventually become an official language of the nation in 1844. Kazinczy is recognized as a cultural pioneer of the Hungarian Reform Era alongside other notable figures.

Miklós Zrínyi was a distinguished military leader, statesman, and poet in Croatia and Hungary. He played a crucial role in defending against Ottoman invasions and was known for his strategic prowess on the battlefield. Zrínyi was a key figure in the House of Zrinski, a noble family with significant influence. His literary contributions were equally impressive, with his epic poem, The Peril of Sziget, marking a significant milestone in Hungarian literature. Zrínyi's professional life was defined by his leadership, intellect, and cultural impact.

Mihály Csokonai was a Hungarian poet who played a significant role in the country's literary renaissance during the Enlightenment period. Educated in Debrecen, Csokonai was appointed as a poetry professor at a young age, but later lost his position due to misconduct. Despite facing constant hardships in his later years, Csokonai continued to produce notable works, including a mock-heroic poem and several comedies and love poems. His unique and passionate writing style, reminiscent of fellow poet Sándor Petőfi, cemented his legacy in Hungarian literature.

Dániel Berzsenyi was a Hungarian poet known for his contradictory nature. He balanced a life as a farmer with a deep desire to be involved in Hungarian literature. This conflict within himself led to his reputation as a lonesome, introverted, and bitter poet. His works displayed elements of classicism, sentimentalism, and romanticism, showcasing his diverse influences and literary styles. Berzsenyi's professional life was marked by a pursuit to reconcile these contradictions and make his mark on Hungarian literature.

Sándor Csoóri was a prominent figure in Hungarian literature and politics. As a poet, essayist, and writer, he made significant contributions to the literary landscape of Hungary, exploring themes of identity, history, and politics in his works. Csoóri's writing often reflected his deep connection to Hungarian culture and his efforts to preserve and promote the country's heritage. In addition to his literary pursuits, Csoóri was also active in politics, advocating for human rights and democratic values in Hungary.

Géza Szőcs was an ethnic Hungarian poet and politician from Transylvania, Romania. He served as Secretary of State for Culture of the Ministry of National Resources in Hungary from June 2, 2010, to June 13, 2012. Szőcs was known for his contributions to literature, particularly poetry, and for his involvement in political affairs related to culture. His professional life was marked by a dedication to promoting Hungarian culture and heritage, both within Romania and internationally. Szőcs left a lasting impact through his work in both literature and politics.

József Katona was a prominent Hungarian playwright and poet known for his significant contributions to Hungarian literature. He is best recognized for his creation of the historical tragedy Bánk bán, which remains a classic in Hungarian theater. Throughout his professional life, Katona demonstrated exceptional talent in writing and storytelling, capturing the essence of Hungarian history and culture in his works. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the literary scene in Hungary and beyond, solidifying his place as a revered figure in the country's cultural heritage.

Tibor Déry was a Hungarian writer and poet known for his significant contributions to literature. He began his career by working for his uncle's lumber business before transitioning to writing. Déry joined the Communist Party after World War I and faced imprisonment multiple times during political upheavals. He authored notable works, including the acclaimed novel "The Unfinished Sentence," and faced challenges under various regimes due to his political views. Despite setbacks, he continued writing and advocating for freedom of expression until his passing in 1977.

Gyula Cseszneky was a Hungarian aristocrat, poet, and cavalry officer who participated in the Hungarian reannexation of Northern Transylvania and served as aide-de-camp to King Tomislav II of Croatia. He was active in anti-Nazi conspiracies and played a significant role in rescuing European Jews during World War II. Cseszneky's professional life was marked by his military service, literary pursuits, and his brave efforts in resisting Nazi oppression and aiding persecuted individuals, exemplifying his commitment to humanitarian causes and courageous actions.

Janus Pannonius was a prominent Croatian-Hungarian Latinist, poet, diplomat, and Bishop of Pécs. He played a significant role as a poet during the Renaissance in the Kingdom of Hungary, gaining recognition as one of the leading figures of humanist poetry in Europe. Known for his literary contributions, Pannonius was celebrated for his eloquent and influential works. Additionally, his diplomatic endeavors and service as a bishop further solidified his reputation as a multifaceted and accomplished professional in his time.

Gyula Kodolányi was a renowned Hungarian poet, literary translator, and historian. He served as the State Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office from 1990 to 1994. Kodolányi was also a recipient of the prestigious Kossuth Prize for his contributions to literature. He was a respected member of the Hungarian Academy of Arts and had previously taught at the English-American Institute of the Faculty of Humanities at Eötvös Loránd University. His scholarly work and poetic achievements have left a lasting impact on Hungarian literature.

Pál Závada is a prominent Hungarian writer known for his contributions to literature. He is recognized for his works written in the Hungarian language, despite being a member of the Slovak minority in Hungary. Závada's professional life is characterized by his literary achievements and his dedication to the craft of storytelling. His writing style and themes have garnered critical acclaim both within Hungary and internationally, establishing him as a respected figure in the literary world.

János Batsányi was a Hungarian poet known for his patriotic works. He began his career as a clerk in the treasury of Kassa, where he co-edited the Magyar Museum. Following his involvement in a conspiracy, he was imprisoned for two years. After his release, he contributed to the Magyar Minerva and worked in a bank in Vienna. Due to political activities, he sought refuge in Paris, later returning to Linz under Austrian supervision. He continued his literary pursuits, publishing poems and editing works of other poets.

János Majláth was a Hungarian historian and poet who dedicated himself to historical research, translating Magyar folk-tales and works of native poets into German. He also showcased his talent as an original lyrical writer and editor of old German poems. Throughout his professional life, he produced significant historical works such as Geschichte der Magyaren and Geschichte des Österreichischen Kaiserstaats. His metrical translations from Hungarian and contributions to folk-lore, such as Magyarische Gedichte and Magyarische Sagen, further solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the literary and historical spheres.