The Library of Jan Neruda as One of the Sources of His Literary and Journalistic Activities
| Pages | 15–24 |
|---|---|
| Keywords | : Jan Neruda (1834–1891) – library – provenance marks – provenance – literary studies – theatre studies – cultural studies – journalism – criticism – Czech literature |
| Type of Article | Peer-reviewed |
| Citation | PETRBOK, Václav . The Library of Jan Neruda as One of the Sources of His Literary and Journalistic Activities . Acta Musei Nationalis Pragae – Historia litterarum. Prague: National Museum, 2014, 59(3-4), 15–24. ISSN 0036-5351. Also available from: https://publikace.nm.cz/en/periodicals/amnphl/59-3-4/the-library-of-jan-neruda-as-one-of-the-sources-of-his-literary-and-journalistic-activities |
The article on the incomplete library of Jan Neruda, comprising 2,493 items (with the individual items frequently containing several volumes) is the first to deal in more detail with its thematic and authorial composition as well as with further provenance marks which make it possible to identify also other owners of the titles purchased (or otherwise acquired) by Neruda. The library provides a representative insight into the owner’s acquisition, his interests and hobbies concerning the social, cultural, literary and theatrical activities while enabling the identification of the circles of his friends, acquaintances and colleagues based on dedications written in the books. Another group is formed by books related to Neruda’s editorial activities (review copies for the weekly Lumír or the daily Národní listy). Neruda’s library is likewise important for further considerations on the history of Czech journalism and theatre criticism in the second half of the 19th century. It has also allowed for an insight into the author’s ‘creative workshop’ through analysis and critical evaluation of the text underlined and glosses. By comparing it with the works published (feuilletons, travelogues, poetry, prose etc.), several initial attempts have been made to uncover some sources of Neruda’s creative activity.
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