Complete Critical Edition of Sándor Petőfi’s Poems Released After 52 Years
The final volume in the series of critical editions of all the poems by Sándor Petőfi, covering the period from 1848-1849, has recently been published. Co-published by the MNMKK National Széchényi Library and Universitas Publishing House, with the support of the Petőfi Cultural Agency, this volume marks a significant achievement in Hungarian literary studies. The release of the sixth volume completes the comprehensive series of critical editions of all of Sándor Petőfi’s poems, a project that took 52 years to complete, twice the length of the poet’s lifetime.
The volume encompasses Petőfi’s poems from 1848 and 1849, including well-known works reflecting on the events of the Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence. It also features Petőfi’s last major epic work, the poetic narrative “The Apostle” (“Az apostol”).
The presentation of the last volume took place at the National Library of Foreign Literature maintained by the MNMKK National Széchenyi Library, where the volume is now available for purchase.
Notably, the publication of this volume coincides with the 200th anniversary of Petőfi’s birth, providing an opportunity to incorporate new research findings. The release pays tribute to both the poet and the dedicated philologists who have contributed to the series over the past five decades.
Ferenc Kerényi, a prominent Petőfi scholar who passed away in 2008, played a significant role in shaping the last two volumes, while Márton Szilágyi devoted over fifteen years to meticulous philological work on the project, ensuring the authenticity and scholarly integrity of the texts.
The critical edition of Petőfi’s poems not only records the full and authentic text but also sheds light on the context of its creation, cultural references, and its reception at the time, enriching the reading experience for scholars and enthusiasts alike.
