Vienac 3 / 1944.

This issue of the magazine Vienac represents a valuable document of Croatian cultural life during the period of the Independent State of Croatia. Published under the auspices of the cultural circle gathered around Matica Hrvatska, the magazine reflects the efforts of the cultural institutions of the time to shape national identity and affirm Croatian cultural identity through literature, language, history and art. In wartime circumstances, Vienac was not only a literary review but also an important medium of the cultural policy of its time.

The content of the issue brings together prominent Croatian writers, critics and intellectuals. Josip Jedvaj's linguistic article on the Croatian dictionary fits into the then-current emphasis on the standardization and affirmation of the Croatian language. Literary contributions are contributed by Agata Truhelka and Milan Begović, while Ivo Ladika, Jerolim Miše and Kruno Krstić discuss literary, artistic and philosophical topics. The texts dedicated to the sculptor Fran Kršinić, one of the most distinguished Croatian artists of the time, attract special attention.

In addition to literary and critical contributions, the issue is enriched with reproductions of sculptures by Frano Kršinić (Resting, Girl, Mother and Child and At Bath) and drawings by Miroslav Kraljević, which further confirms the effort of Vienc to be a comprehensive overview of contemporary Croatian culture. As a historical source, this issue provides valuable insight into the literary, artistic and ideological trends of Croatian society during the war years.

Contents:

• Josip Jedvaj – New Dictionary of the Croatian Language
• Agata Truhelka – Muck and Molation
• Milan Begović – Ghosts in the Castle (excerpt from the novel)
• Ivo Ladika – Intuitive Kranjčević
• Jerolim Miše – The Appearance of Fran Kršinić
• Kruno Krstić – Philosophy and Language
• Adam Mickiewicz – excerpt from Dziada (translated by Julij Benešić)
• Kazimierz Waliszewski – excerpt about Peter the Great (translated by J. Andreis)
• J. Andreis – translator of the excerpt from Waliszewski