Description: One of Hungary's most prolific authors during the first half of the 20th century. Ferenc Molnar was widely read and respected by audiences throughout Europe. This study provides an analysis of Molnar's early literary work (1898-1920) in the context of the cultural milieu of turn-of-the-century Austria-Hungary. The book seeks also to shed light on the socio-historical condition and literary developments in 'Fin-de-Siècle' Budapest.
Review Quotes: «István Várkonyi's intriguing study of Molnar helps the reader to understand the 'other side' of the Austro-Hungarian 'fin de siècle': the rich artistic and literary life of Budapest. Of particular interest is 'Várkonyi's' clear examination of Molnar's position as an assimilated Jew and its impact on his literary career.» (Frank Trommler, University of Pennsylvania)
«What makes (this book) especially important beyond the interest in a worthy and prolific writer is Várkonyi's recreation of the Austrian Hungarian milieu out of which the dramatist-novelist grew and from which he derived topics, atmosphere and character. Budapest and the emergence of a new Hungarian literature comes into sharp view. The incorporation of hitherto unused Hungarian sources, difficult to access for linguistic and other reasons, imparts freshness and originality to Várkonyi's highly recommendable book.» (Egon Schwarz, Washington University)
«Professor Várkonyi's work does not merely fill a long overdue gap in the history of modern literature; it is also a monograph of high quality. Ferenc Molnar's life and literary career are protolypic illustrations of a very important period in Central European civilization and culture. Professor Várkonyi's awareness of these conditions elevates his work above the proper and expectable standards of a monograph in the history of European literature.» (John Lukaas, Temple University)