May 17

Born in 1504 into a scholarly family, Shin Saimdang excelled in poetry, painting, and calligraphy from an early age. Her work combined delicate brushwork with lyrical expression, earning her a reputation among the Joseon literati. Married to the scholar Yi Won-su, she balanced household duties with artistic pursuits and raised seven children, including the renowned philosopher Yi I. She became a cultural icon, admired for her talent and moral integrity. Today, she is commemorated on the South Korean 50,000 won banknote as a symbol of wisdom and maternal devotion.

Born in Coimbra in 1485, Sá de Miranda studied law before traveling to Italy in 1521, where he immersed himself in Petrarchan poetry. Upon returning to Portugal, he composed sonnets and ottava rima that transformed Portuguese verse. He served at the court of King John III and mentored other poets, fostering a literary revival. His works bridged medieval traditions and the emerging humanist style of the Renaissance. He died in Lisbon in 1558, leaving a lasting impact on Iberian letters.

Born in Paris in 1719, Sedaine initially worked as a clerk before turning to writing for the stage. He authored librettos and plays that blended spoken dialogue with popular songs, helping to shape the opéra-comique genre. Collaborating with composers like Monsigny and Philidor, many of his works were performed in Parisian theatres. Sedaine’s realistic characters, vivid dialogue, and social commentary appealed to wide audiences. His influence extended to later dramatists like Beaumarchais and composers such as Grétry. He died in 1797, remembered as one of the founders of French comic opera.

Archibald Alison was a Scottish Episcopal priest and moral philosopher born in London in 1757. Educated at the University of Edinburgh, he served as minister of Kenley, Surrey, from 1780 until his death. Alison’s most notable work, 'Essays on the Nature and Principles of Taste' (1790), explored aesthetic theory and influenced discussions on art and beauty. His writings combined philosophical analysis with practical examples from literature and art. Alison’s insights helped shape the field of aesthetics in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He also wrote devotional texts and supported charitable causes in his parish. Alison died in 1839, remembered for bridging theology and philosophy.

Ziya Pasha was a Greek author and translator born in Constantinople in 1826. He played a central role in the 19th-century Greek literary revival, translating key works of European literature into Greek. His translations included novels, plays, and poetry by leading French and English authors. Pasha also contributed original essays and poetry that blended classical Greek themes with contemporary thought. As an editor for literary journals, he promoted education, modern language reforms, and national identity. His work helped bridge cultural gaps and modernize Greek letters during a period of nation-building. He died in 1880, leaving a lasting impact on Greek literature and translation.

Giacomo Zanella was born in 1820 in the Veneto region of Italy and ordained as a Catholic priest. He emerged as a prominent poet in the Italian Romantic movement, drawing inspiration from classical mythology and Christian spirituality. Zanella served as a teacher and rector at seminaries, dedicating himself to both education and literature. His major works, including 'Il pianto antico' (The Ancient Lament), were celebrated for their melodic language and emotional depth. He balanced his clerical duties with a passion for poetry, earning admiration from literary contemporaries. Zanella’s verse explored themes of nature, faith, and human longing. His contributions remain influential in 19th-century Italian letters.

Guido von List was born in 1848 in Vienna and began his career writing poetry and travel journalism. He later turned to occult and nationalist studies, developing a belief system called Armanism that combined Germanic paganism with mysticism. List authored works such as 'The Secret of the Runes,' promoting a mythic vision of Aryan history and culture. His ideas on runic symbols and ancient Germanic traditions found an audience among nationalist groups in late 19th- and early 20th-century Europe. While his theories were later appropriated by extremist ideologies, List’s literary style and occult leanings were widely read in his time. He founded the Guido von List Society to disseminate his writings and organize lectures. List’s fusion of literary talent and mysticism makes him a controversial yet significant figure in modern Germanic literature.

Born in Barmen, Germany in 1864, Elberskirchen studied philosophy and social sciences extensively. She emerged as one of the first German writers to advocate for women's emancipation and sexual reform in the early 20th century. Elberskirchen published numerous essays and pamphlets challenging traditional gender roles and promoting sexual education. Her activism extended to supporting lesbian and homosexual rights, making her a groundbreaking voice in queer advocacy. Despite facing social backlash, she continued lecturing across Germany, influencing both the feminist and scientific communities. Her work laid important foundations for later feminist and LGBTQ movements, though it remained underrecognized in her lifetime.

Born in Montevideo, Uruguay in 1884, Supervielle moved to France to pursue his education. He published his first poems in Paris in 1907, quickly gaining recognition for his evocative and dreamlike style. Supervielle wrote prolifically across poetry, essays, and short stories, blending realism with poetic fantasy. He received the Grand Prix de Poésie from the French Academy for his contributions to literature. His work influenced both surrealists and modernists, bridging Latin American and European literary traditions. Supervielle's poetic vision continues to inspire readers with its celebration of everyday beauty and imagination.

Abe Burrows was a multifaceted American author, director, and composer who played a pivotal role in mid-20th century Broadway. He co-wrote the iconic musical "Guys and Dolls" and won a Tony Award for directing "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying". Burrows began his career writing for radio before becoming a leading figure on Broadway, renowned for his sharp wit and engaging dialogue. In addition to his stage successes, he authored essays and books that showcased his versatile storytelling. His contributions helped define the Golden Age of American theater, and his works continue to influence writers and directors alike.

Frank Gill Slaughter was born in 1908 and trained as a physician before becoming a novelist. He wrote more than sixty novels blending medical knowledge with historical adventure. His debut book became a bestseller and launched a prolific writing career. He often drew on his medical background to create authentic stories of doctors and patients. His works were translated into multiple languages and adapted for radio and television. He maintained a medical practice while writing until his retirement from medicine. Slaughter died in 2001, remembered as both a healer and a storyteller.

Aşık Mahzuni Şerif was born in 1940 and became a leading figure in Turkish folk music. He wrote and performed hundreds of songs blending traditional melodies with sharp social and political commentary. His work often addressed themes of justice, love, and daily life in rural Anatolia. He recorded numerous albums and performed at festivals across Turkey. Despite facing censorship and political pressure, he remained a powerful voice for the common people. His legacy continues to inspire musicians, poets, and activists. Şerif died in 2002, leaving behind a rich catalogue of poetic and musical works.