Author of The Iliad: Homer

Authorship:

• Homer is credited as the author of two monumental epic poems: the Iliad and the
Odyssey.
• Despite the veil of mystery surrounding his life, scholars believe he lived during the
9th or 8th century BCE.
• His association with the Ionian region (now part of Turkey) has persisted since
antiquity.
Influence:

• Homer’s epics served as the bedrock of Greek education and culture during the
Classical age.
• These works weren’t merely literary masterpieces; they also functioned as a moral
compass and a guide to practical living.
• The Greeks revered the Iliad and the Odyssey, drawing inspiration from their heroes,
gods, and timeless themes.
Legacy:

• The impact of the Homeric epics extended far beyond ancient Greece.
• Virgil, the Roman poet, drew heavily from Homer’s works when composing his own
epic, the Aeneid.
• During the Renaissance, the revival of interest in classical texts led to a profound
influence of the Homeric poems on Italian culture.
• Even today, translations of the Iliad and the Odyssey remain essential in the rich
tapestry of Classical European tradition.
In summary, Homer’s poetic genius transcends time, leaving an indelible mark on
literature, culture, and the human imagination.

Author of The Last Judgement: Karel Capek

Karel Čapek, the multifaceted Czech writer, playwright, critic, and journalist:
Science Fiction:

• Čapek is celebrated for his contributions to science fiction literature.

• His novel “War with the Newts” (1936) delves into the consequences of human
interaction with intelligent amphibious creatures. Through this work, Čapek
explores themes of ecological impact and human hubris.
 • The play “R.U.R.” (Rossum’s Universal Robots) (1920) is particularly significant. Not
only did it introduce the term “robot” to the world, but it also envisioned a future
where artificial beings—created for labor—would revolutionize society. Little did
Čapek know that this term would become a fundamental part of our technological
lexicon.
Political Satire:

• Čapek’s keen eye for social and political issues shines through his works.
• In the novel “The White Disease” (Bílá nemoc) and the novel “The Absolute at Large”
(Továrna na absolutno), he fearlessly critiques totalitarianism and militarism. These
satirical pieces serve as cautionary tales, urging readers to question authority and
the consequences of unchecked power.
Humanism and Democracy:

• Influenced by American pragmatic liberalism, Čapek was an advocate for free

expression and individual rights.
• He vehemently opposed the rise of both fascism and communism in Europe. His
writings stood as a beacon of resistance against oppressive ideologies.
• Despite being nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature seven times, Čapek never
received the prestigious award. Nevertheless, his impact transcends accolades.
Legacy and Awards:

• The Karel Čapek Prize serves as a lasting tribute to his name. Awarded by the Czech
PEN Club, it recognizes literary work that upholds democratic and humanist values.
• Čapek played a pivotal role in establishing the Czechoslovak PEN Club as part of
International PEN, fostering literary exchange and freedom of expression.
Personal Life:

• Born in 1890 in Malé Svatoňovice, Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic), Čapek
faced physical challenges due to a spinal disease.
• His father, a doctor, and his mother, who battled depression, influenced his
worldview and empathy.
• Čapek’s legacy as a literary figure solidified after World War II, resonating across
generations.
In summary, Karel Čapek’s impact extends far beyond literature, leaving an enduring mark
on science fiction, political discourse, and humanist values.