Vuk Karadžić

VukKaradzic

Vuk Stefanović Karadžić (7 November 1787 – 7 February 1864) was a Serbian philologist, linguist, and major reformer of the Serbian language. He is often regarded as the father of the modern Serbian language and is one of the most significant figures in Serbian cultural history.

Early Life

Vuk Karadžić was born in the village of Tršić, in the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Serbia). He was educated in various monasteries and schools, where he developed an interest in the Serbian language and literature.

Language Reform

Karadžić is best known for his comprehensive reform of the Serbian language. He standardized the Serbian Cyrillic alphabet, introducing new letters to better represent the phonetic characteristics of the spoken language. His motto was "Write as you speak and read as it is written" (Piši kao što govoriš, čitaj kako je napisano).

Literary Contributions

Vuk Karadžić collected and published numerous Serbian folk songs, tales, and proverbs, which played a crucial role in preserving Serbian cultural heritage. His most notable works include the Serbian Dictionary (Srpski rječnik) and the Serbian Folk Poems (Srpske narodne pjesme).

Influence and Legacy

Karadžić's work had a profound impact on the development of the Serbian language and literature. He collaborated with prominent European scholars, including Jacob Grimm and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, which helped to bring Serbian culture to a wider audience.

Personal Life

Vuk Karadžić married Ana Kraus, with whom he had several children. His daughter, Mina Karadžić, was a notable painter and writer.

Death and Commemoration

Vuk Karadžić died in Vienna, Austrian Empire, in 1864. He was initially buried in Vienna, but his remains were later moved to the St. Michael's Cathedral in Belgrade. His legacy is celebrated in Serbia and among the Serbian diaspora, with numerous schools, streets, and institutions named in his honor.

See Also

• Serbian language
• Serbian Cyrillic alphabet
• Serbian literature
• Jacob Grimm
• Johann Wolfgang von Goethe