János Zsupánek, Slovene-Hungarian author and poet (d. 1951)

János Zsupánek: A Pillar of Prekmurje Slovene Literature

János Zsupánek, also known by his Slovene name Janoš Županek (born January 6, 1861, died March 11, 1951), stands as a significant figure in the literary history of Slovenes residing in Hungary. As a prolific Slovene writer and poet, his work was deeply rooted in the cultural and linguistic landscape of the Prekmurje region, a distinctive area nestled predominantly between the Mura River and the Hungarian border, now part of northeastern Slovenia. The Zsupánek name is uniquely synonymous with literary contributions to the Prekmurje Slovene dialect, a distinct and historically vital variant of the Slovene language.

János Zsupánek inherited his literary inclination from his father, Mihály Zsupánek, who was himself an esteemed poet and writer. This literary legacy continued through the generations, as János's own son, Vilmos Zsupánek, also became a notable writer and poet. This remarkable multi-generational commitment highlights the Zsupánek family's profound dedication to preserving and enriching Slovene literary heritage within the Hungarian context. Collectively, the three Zsupáneks played a crucial role in safeguarding the Prekmurje dialect through their collaborative efforts. They diligently transcribed and preserved older, often unwritten, hymns that were an intrinsic part of the local oral tradition. Beyond preservation, they also penned original hymns and poems, thereby expanding the body of literature available in the unique Prekmurje Slovene dialect, which was crucial for maintaining cultural and linguistic identity in the region.

Early Life, Spiritual Journeys, and Linguistic Exposure

János Zsupánek's life began in the village of Šalovci, a locality within the Prekmurje region that would remain central to his existence, serving as both his birthplace and final resting place. Born to his mother, Mária Gomilár, Zsupánek's early environment was shaped by the local traditions and the unique linguistic tapestry of Prekmurje.

His formative years and subsequent literary work were significantly influenced by extensive pilgrimages he undertook to various revered religious sites. These spiritual journeys led him to prominent centers such as Graz in Austria, Mariazell – Austria's most important pilgrimage site, Maribor in present-day Slovenia, and across the culturally rich Slovene Hills (Slovenske gorice) region. These travels were not merely spiritual expeditions; they served as invaluable opportunities for Zsupánek to immerse himself in a diverse array of hymnody. He gained intimate familiarity with hymns sung in German, the then-dominant language of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, as well as in Hungarian, the official language of the broader kingdom. Critically, he also absorbed hymns in Latin, the liturgical language of the Roman Catholic Church, and notably, hymns in the Slovene Hills dialect. This particular dialect holds a close linguistic affinity with the Prekmurje dialect, allowing Zsupánek to deepen his understanding of regional Slovene linguistic variations and how they were expressed through religious verse. This rich exposure to multiple languages and regional dialects undoubtedly broadened his stylistic range and informed his subsequent contributions to Slovene hymnody.

Major Literary Works and Community Support

Initially, János Zsupánek's literary endeavors saw him compose his first hymns in Hungarian, reflecting the prevailing linguistic environment and the historical context of Slovenes living within Hungary. However, his most enduring contributions were made in the Prekmurje Slovene dialect, playing a vital role in its standardization and spiritual application.

A landmark achievement in his career came in 1908 with the publication of his comprehensive prayer book and hymnal titled Vu Iméni Ocsé, i Sziná, i Dühá, szvétoga Ámen (meaning "In the Name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen"). This work was more than just a collection of prayers and songs; it was a foundational text that provided the Prekmurje Slovene community with accessible religious material in their native dialect, fostering spiritual connection and preserving linguistic distinctiveness at a time when such resources were rare. These prayer books and hymnals were not merely religious aids but crucial instruments for maintaining cultural identity and promoting literacy within the community.

Two years later, in 1910, Zsupánek further enriched Prekmurje Slovene literature with the publication of Mrtvecsne peszmi, a unique hymnal specifically dedicated to "Dirges," or songs of mourning. These dirges, traditionally sung during funeral rites and periods of remembrance, held profound cultural and emotional significance. The existence of a dedicated collection of such hymns in the Prekmurje dialect underscored Zsupánek's commitment to providing spiritual comfort and upholding the specific traditions of his community. The publication of this important work was made possible through the invaluable support of local benefactors from Šalovci, namely Miklós Kovács and József Konkolics. Their patronage highlights the community's recognition of Zsupánek's vital role and their collective desire to preserve their unique linguistic and religious heritage.

A Lasting Legacy from Šalovci

János Zsupánek passed away on March 11, 1951, in his native village of Šalovci, the very place where his life's journey began. His death marked the end of a prolific life dedicated to the literary and spiritual enrichment of the Prekmurje Slovene community. Zsupánek's enduring legacy is enshrined in his profound contributions to hymnody and poetry, which continue to serve as cornerstones of Prekmurje Slovene cultural and linguistic identity.

Frequently Asked Questions About János Zsupánek

Who was János Zsupánek?

János Zsupánek (Janoš Županek) was a prominent Slovene writer and poet from the Prekmurje region of Hungary (now northeastern Slovenia), active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is celebrated for his significant contributions to Prekmurje Slovene literature, particularly his hymns and poems.

What is the Prekmurje Slovene dialect?

The Prekmurje Slovene dialect is a distinct variant of the Slovene language spoken in the Prekmurje region, which historically lay largely within Hungary. It holds unique linguistic characteristics and a rich literary tradition, playing a crucial role in the cultural identity of the local Slovene community.

Why were Zsupánek's hymns and prayer books important?

Zsupánek's hymns and prayer books were vital for the Prekmurje Slovene community. They provided accessible religious texts in their native dialect, fostering spiritual connection, preserving linguistic identity, and promoting literacy at a time when resources in minority languages were limited. His work helped ensure the survival and vitality of the Prekmurje Slovene language.

What were János Zsupánek's most notable published works?

His most notable published works include the prayer book and hymnal Vu Iméni Ocsé, i Sziná, i Dühá, szvétoga Ámen (published in 1908), and the Prekmurje dialect hymnal Mrtvecsne peszmi (Dirges, published in 1910). These works are considered cornerstones of Prekmurje Slovene literature.

How did his family contribute to Slovene literature?

The Zsupánek family demonstrated a remarkable multi-generational commitment to Slovene literature. János Zsupánek followed in the footsteps of his father, Mihály Zsupánek, who was also a writer and poet. Similarly, János's son, Vilmos Zsupánek, continued the family tradition as a writer and poet, collectively enriching and preserving the Prekmurje Slovene dialect through their hymns and poems.