February 20

Born in 1523 in Usti nad Labem in Bohemia. Became a prominent member of the Unity of the Brethren and served as superintendent. Produced the first Czech grammar and translated the New Testament into Czech, influencing the development of the Czech language. Authored collections of hymns that remain central to Czech liturgical music. His scholarly efforts cemented his legacy in Renaissance literature. Died in 1571.

Born in 1745, Henry James Pye studied at Winchester College and Christ Church, Oxford. He was appointed Poet Laureate in 1790, serving until his death in 1813. Pye served as Member of Parliament for Berkshire and held the office of High Sheriff. Although his poetry received mixed reviews, his official verses were widely circulated. He authored pastoral and classical works, embodying the tastes of his era. His tenure as Laureate saw him compose occasional poetry for royal occasions.

Born in 1751, Johann Heinrich Voss became a leading figure in German literary classicism. He held professorships in literature and was elected to the Göttingen Academy of Sciences. Voss produced influential German versions of the Iliad and Odyssey that shaped literary German. He also wrote original poetry and essays on poetics and philology. His scholarship advanced the study of classical languages in Germany. Voss’s work bridged academic research and creative writing in the late 18th century.

Born in London in 1784, Judith Montefiore married Sir Moses Montefiore and traveled widely in Europe and the Middle East. She wrote detailed letters and narratives that combined travelogue and linguistic observations. Montefiore championed Jewish communities, founding schools and charitable institutions in Palestine and Britain. Fluent in multiple languages, she translated literary works and corresponded with prominent intellectuals. Her philanthropic legacy includes hospitals, libraries, and cultural centers. She died in 1862, remembered for her generosity and cultural insights.

Born in County Tyrone, William Carleton rose from humble beginnings to become a celebrated author of Irish peasant tales. His seminal work, "Traits and Stories of the Irish Peasantry," offered authentic insights into the customs, dialects, and hardships of rural communities. Carleton's writings blended romanticism with social commentary, influencing both Irish literature and cultural identity. Despite facing criticism for alleged idealization, his narratives remain valued for their historical detail and empathy. He advocated for the preservation of Ireland's oral traditions, leaving a lasting legacy on folklore studies and literature.

Jacques d'Adelswärd-Fersen was a French author and poet celebrated for his decadent and symbolist writings. Born in 1880 into an aristocratic family, he published novels exploring themes of beauty and desire. After facing scandal over his personal life in Paris, he settled in Capri and built Villa Lysis as a retreat for artists. His works, including 'Monsieur de Phocas,' gained a cult following among avant-garde circles. Fersen's writing blended lyrical prose with explorations of identity and aesthetics. He died in 1923, leaving behind a legacy of literary and cultural intrigue.

Georges Bernanos was a French soldier and writer whose novels delved into questions of faith, grace, and human struggle. Born in 1888, he served on the front lines during World War I before turning to literature. His works, including 'Diary of a Country Priest' and 'Under the Sun of Satan,' reflect his Catholic convictions and critique of modern society. Bernanos opposed fascist ideologies and spent years in exile during World War II. His prose is marked by lyrical intensity and profound moral inquiry. Bernanos died in 1948, leaving a lasting impact on 20th-century French literature.

Born in 1898, Ciliga became involved in communist movements across Europe. He joined the Communist Party of Yugoslavia and later penned the memoir 'The Russian Enigma,' critically examining Stalinism. His writings offered early Western insights into Soviet totalitarianism and influenced political discourse. He founded and published periodicals that advocated for reform in Croatia. Despite facing persecution, he continued to write novels, essays, and commentary on European politics. Ciliga's work remains a vital source for understanding early 20th-century ideological struggles.

Born in 1912 in Avignon, Boulle served in the French army during World War II and joined the Free French forces. He undertook clandestine missions behind enemy lines before turning to writing. His novel 'The Bridge over the River Kwai' won the 1957 Pulitzer Prize and inspired an Oscar-winning film. He later wrote 'Planet of the Apes,' which became a groundbreaking science fiction franchise. Boulle’s works explored themes of morality, human nature, and the impact of scientific progress. He remained a prolific author until his death in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy in literature and cinema.

Robert Altman’s career spanned over five decades, during which he directed landmark films such as M*A*S*H, Nashville, and The Player. He was known for his overlapping dialogue, large casts, and satirical takes on American institutions. Altman won the Palme d’Or at Cannes for M*A*S*H and received multiple Academy Award nominations. His work challenged Hollywood conventions and paved the way for independent filmmakers. Altman also nurtured emerging talent, giving early roles to actors like Lily Tomlin and Bruce Willis. He remained active in filmmaking until his death in 2006.

Richard Matheson authored groundbreaking novels such as I Am Legend and Hell House, pioneering themes of the supernatural and dystopia. His short stories, including 'Nightmare at 20,000 Feet,' were adapted into memorable Twilight Zone episodes. Matheson wrote screenplays for films like The Incredible Shrinking Man and contributed to the scripts of other major motion pictures. His blending of human psychology with fantastical elements influenced generations of writers in both literature and film. Over his career, he received the Bram Stoker Award, World Fantasy Award, and a lifetime achievement award from the Horror Writers Association. Matheson’s imaginative storytelling continues to captivate audiences posthumously.

Adrian Cristobal was born in 1932 in Manila, Philippines. He began his career as a journalist at leading newspapers and magazines, earning acclaim for his incisive commentary. Cristobal published novels and short stories that explored Philippine society and culture, winning multiple Palanca Awards. He founded and edited various publications, shaping public discourse on politics and literature. In the 1990s, he served as Press Secretary under President Fidel V. Ramos, further demonstrating his influence in both media and government. Cristobal's work bridged journalism and creative writing until his death in 2007, leaving a lasting impact on Philippine letters.