Klasszikusai

Klasszikusai is a Hungarian term used to refer to the canon of classic works within a given domain—most often literature, music, cinema, or art. It denotes works that are considered foundational, durable, and influential, and that are frequently taught, published, performed, or discussed as benchmarks of quality or style.

Linguistic notes: klasszikusai derives from the adjective klasszikus (classic, classical) with the plural suffix -ai, functioning as a noun meaning “the classics” or “the classic works.” It is used in phrases such as “a szerző klasszikusai” (the author’s classics) or “a zene klasszikusai” (the classical works in music). The expression can function as the subject or object in a sentence and may appear in critical writing, catalog descriptions, or program notes.

Usage and scope: In criticism and scholarly writing, klasszikusai may refer to a recognized canon that guides interpretation, teaching, and performance. It can describe a curated collection, such as a publisher’s edition of an author’s klasszikusai, or a concert program’s selection of klasszikusai. The term emphasizes enduring value and historical impact, distinguishing long-standing works from contemporary or emerging pieces while varying by discipline and cultural context.