Peter Rosegger
Peter Rosegger was a notable Austrian novelist and poet, born in 1843 in the small village of Alpl, Styria. His early life was marked by limited formal education, as he traveled two hours daily to attend school. At seventeen, he began working as a tailor's apprentice but devoted his earnings to purchasing books, which fueled his passion for literature and writing. Rosegger's literary career began in earnest with the publication of his novel *Geschichten aus der Steiermark* in 1871, which garnered him respect and recognition as a prominent voice in Austrian literature. His works often depicted the provincial life and customs of Styria, reflecting the culture of his homeland.
Rosegger's personal life included two marriages; his first wife, Anna Pichler, died shortly after childbirth, while his second wife, Anna Knaur, bore him three children. Throughout his life, he was dedicated to community service, helping to raise funds for educational and religious institutions. In recognition of his contributions, he received numerous accolades, including an honorary degree from the University of Heidelberg and medals from both German and Austrian emperors. Peter Rosegger passed away in 1918 at the age of seventy-four, leaving behind a legacy as one of Austria's respected literary figures.
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Peter Rosegger
Poet
- Born: July 31, 1843
- Birthplace: Alpl, Styria, Austria
- Died: June 26, 1918
- Place of death: Alpl, Styria, Austria
Biography
Peter Rosegger, a late nineteenth century novelist and poet, was born in Alpl, a tiny village in the Austrian state of Styria. During his childhood, Rosegger walked two hours one way to the nearby village of St. Kathrein in order to attend school. As a result, his early education was limited. At the age of seventeen, instead of attending college, Rosegger became an understudy to a traveling tailor.
Rosegger spent what little money he made as a tailor’s apprentice on purchasing books. He developed an interest in literature and began to write. Soon his talent as a writer was discovered by a local newspaper editor who paid for Rosegger to attend the Akademic Fur Hendel und Industrie (Academy for Trade and Industry). However, with limited formal academic experience, Rosegger was unable to maintain his studies. In 1869, he left the academy and pursued writing full time.
Two years later, in 1871, Rosegger published a novel, Geschichten aus der Steiermark. The publication of this work was the start of a lifetime writing career that established Rosegger as one of the most respected authors and poets in the history of Austria. His works described provincial life in nineteenth century Austria with a focus on the people and customs of his native state of Styria.
In 1873, Rosegger married Anna Pichler. In 1875, she died giving birth to their second child. Four years later, Rosegger married Anna Knaur, with whom he had three more children.
Rosegger spent his later years writing novels and poetry. He was active in his community and worked tirelessly to raise funds to build schools and churches. In 1903, on his sixtieth birthday, Rosegger received an honorary degree from the University of Heidelberg. He also received medals of distinction from both the German emperor, Wilhelm II, and the Austrian emperor, Franz Josef I. In 1918, Rosegger returned to his childhood home, where he died at the age of seventy-four.