May 21

As chancellor under Emperor Shenzong, Wang Anshi implemented the New Policies aimed at financial, military, and educational reform. His measures sought to strengthen central authority, boost state revenues, and support small farmers. Controversial in his time, his policies sparked fierce debate among scholar-officials and laid groundwork for later governance. Beyond politics, Wang was acclaimed for his lyrical poetry and essays reflecting Confucian ideals. He championed meritocratic examinations and practical administration. Though many reforms were later reversed, his bold vision influenced centuries of Chinese governance. Wang Anshi remains a pivotal figure in Song dynasty history and Chinese intellectual tradition.

Martynas Mažvydas was born in 1510 and became a pioneering figure in Lithuanian literature. In 1547, he published the first printed book in Lithuanian, a catechism that laid the foundation for national written culture. His work standardized Lithuanian orthography and enriched church liturgy. Mažvydas studied in Königsberg and promoted the use of the Lithuanian language in religious and educational texts. His contributions played a crucial role in the cultural awakening of Lithuania. He is remembered as a father of Lithuanian literary tradition.

Pieter Corneliszoon Hooft was born in 1581 in Haarlem and became a central figure of the Muiderkring literary circle. He authored renowned tragedies and pastoral plays that enriched Dutch drama. As a historian, Hooft wrote a comprehensive history of the Netherlands, documenting the Eighty Years' War. His poetry celebrated humanism and classical ideals, shaping Dutch language and literature. He served as a curator of the Dutch national archives in The Hague. Hooft’s works epitomize the cultural flourishing of the Dutch Golden Age and continue to be celebrated for their artistry.

Christopher Smart was born in Shipbourne, Kent, in 1722 and studied at Cambridge University. He wrote poetry, plays, and works of criticism before experiencing a period of mental illness and confinement. During his confinement, Smart composed his most famous work, the religious poem 'Jubilate Agno.' He also produced the hymn 'For I will consider my Cat Jeoffry,' celebrating spiritual themes in everyday life. Smart’s works were largely unpublished during his lifetime but gained posthumous acclaim for their originality. He returned to London, performed on stage as an actor, and continued writing until his death in 1771.

Thomas Warton was an influential English poet, critic, and historian born in 1728. He served as Professor of Poetry at the University of Oxford and was appointed Poet Laureate in 1785. His multi-volume The History of English Poetry laid the foundations for the academic study of English literature. Warton also edited the works of Geoffrey Chaucer and inspired the Romantic poets that followed. His own poetry blended classical influences with emerging Romantic sensibilities. Warton is remembered as a central figure in 18th-century English letters.

Born in 1886 to an Anglo-Italian family, Firbank published his first novel at the age of 22. His works are noted for their experimental prose, whimsical characters, and sharp social commentary. Firbank influenced modernist literature and was admired by contemporaries such as Virginia Woolf. Despite a short life and limited output, his novels and short stories left a lasting literary legacy. He died on May 21, 1926, remembered for reshaping early 20th-century English fiction.

Born in 1873, Boulenger trained in fencing and competed in national and international tournaments. He represented France in major fencing competitions during the early 20th century. Alongside his sports career, he authored novels and essays exploring social themes. Boulenger's dual talents made him a notable figure in both French sports and literary circles. He died on May 21, 1932, remembered for his unique blend of athleticism and writing.

Klaus Mann was the son of renowned novelist Thomas Mann and emerged as a powerful literary voice in Weimar Germany. He authored novels like 'Mephisto' and plays that delved into themes of exile, sexuality, and totalitarianism. A vocal opponent of Nazism, Mann went into exile and continued his work in Europe and the United States. As a critic and essayist, he championed artistic freedom and human rights. His autobiographical writings offer poignant insights into the struggles for political and personal freedom. Mann's legacy endures as a symbol of resistance and intellectual courage. He died in 1949 at the age of 42.

Alexander Vertinsky was a seminal figure in early 20th-century Russian culture, famed for his poetic songs and theatrical performances. His darkly romantic ballads, often accompanied by distinctive costume and stagecraft, resonated with audiences across Europe. Initially performing in cabarets, he later appeared in silent films and on concert stages. Vertinsky's lyrics explored themes of love, loss, and existential longing, making him a forefather of singer-songwriters. He also wrote poetry and memoirs reflecting his tumultuous life, including exile periods following the Russian Revolution. His multifaceted artistry influenced generations of performers in Russia and beyond. Vertinsky passed away in 1957, leaving a rich legacy of music and literary works.

Born in England in 1885, E. L. Grant Watson emigrated to Australia and developed a deep passion for the country's unique wildlife. He worked as a biologist with state museums, publishing important scientific papers on Australian fauna. Grant Watson authored numerous books and essays blending scientific observation with lyrical prose about the natural world. His writings explored themes of conservation, human connection to nature, and the mysteries of the outback. Through his dual career as scientist and literary figure, he inspired generations to appreciate and protect the environment. He passed away in 1970, leaving a lasting legacy in both biology and literature.

Born in 1903 in London, Sir Kenneth Clark studied at Oxford and became a leading authority on art history. He served as director of the National Gallery and was knighted for his contributions to the arts. In 1969, Clark created and presented the landmark BBC series "Civilisation," which brought art history to a global audience. He authored several books exploring the development of Western art, including his celebrated work "The Nude." Clark's engaging style and scholarly insight helped popularize art appreciation beyond academic circles. He died in 1983, leaving a lasting impact on how art history is presented in media and scholarship.

Dame Barbara Cartland (1901-2000) was an English author celebrated for her prolific career in romance fiction. She authored over 700 novels, becoming one of the best-selling writers of the 20th century. Known for her distinctive style and flamboyant persona, Cartland became a household name around the world. Beyond writing, she engaged in charitable activities and was a prominent social figure in Britain. Her legacy continues through her timeless romantic tales and enduring influence on the genre.