Eminescu

Mihai Eminescu (15 January 1850 – 15 June 1889), usually referred to simply as Eminescu, was a Romanian poet, novelist, and journalist. Born in Botoșani, in the Principality of Moldavia, he is widely regarded as Romania's national poet and a central figure in the development of modern Romanian literature and language. His lyric and narrative works helped shape national consciousness in the 19th century.

Eminescu pursued higher studies abroad, in Vienna and Berlin, before returning to Romania. He began a prolific career as a writer and journalist, contributing to several Romanian periodicals and shaping literary tastes with Romantic and classical influences, as well as national and historical themes.

Eminescu's poetry blends Romantic longing, philosophical reflection, nature, and national history. His best known long poem, Luceafărul (The Evening Star), explores the tension between mortal love and the ideal. Other celebrated works include Somnoroase păsărele and epistolary lyrics such as Scrisoarea I. He also wrote short prose such as Sărmanul Dionis, and he translated works from German and French, helping to enrich Romanian literary language.

Eminescu's influence extends beyond his lifetime: he is regarded as a foundational figure in modern Romanian literature, shaping linguistic and stylistic norms and inspiring later generations. His verses remain widely taught and cited in Romania, and he is commemorated with monuments, cultural institutions, and annual observances. He died in Bucharest in 1889 after a long illness.