Mór Jókai 
Peter the Priest 

Mór Jókai’s novel ‘Peter the Priest’ is a captivating tale set in 17th century Hungary, depicting the struggle between love and duty. The story revolves around Peter, a devout priest, who finds himself torn between his religious vows and his forbidden love for a noblewoman. Jókai’s writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions and rich character development, immersing readers in the historical backdrop of feudal Hungary. The novel’s thematic exploration of moral dilemmas and societal expectations adds depth to the narrative, making it a compelling read for those interested in romantic and historical fiction. ‘Peter the Priest’ is a fine example of Jókai’s ability to blend romance with social commentary, creating a thought-provoking literary work that stands the test of time.

Giới thiệu về tác giả

Mór Jókai, also known as Maurus Jokai, was a towering figure in 19th-century Hungarian literature and is revered for his prolific output as a novelist and his mastery of romantic prose. Born on February 18, 1825, in Komárom, Hungary, Jókai’s literary career spanned over six decades, during which he penned more than a hundred novels. He most notably merged social realism with romanticism, capturing the transformative epochs of his nation’s history and the complexities of human characters with depth and empathy. His most famed work, ‘The Man with the Golden Touch’ (Az arany ember), continues to endure as a classic of Hungarian literature. ‘Peter the Priest’ is another significant contribution by Jókai that showcases his ability to intertwine historical events with fiction, creating a compelling narrative. A contemporary of Jókai described him as not just Hungary’s, but Europe’s master novelist, a sentiment echoed by the continued respect for his work. Jókai was also a keen participant in Hungarian political life, contributing to the country’s 1848 revolution. His contributions to literature and national culture were recognized by his election to the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. Jókai passed away on May 5, 1904, in Budapest, yet his work remains a vital part of Hungarian cultural heritage (Király, 1975).