Viktors Hausmanis, a notable scholar of literature and theater, has died

Habilitated doctor of philological sciences (1972), habilitated doctor of philology (1992), academician and full member of the Latvian Academy of Sciences (1989). Participated in the collective works of the Institute of Language and Literature, developed the textological principles of the scientific edition of Rainis Kopoto’s writings, prepared and commented on the 9th, 11th-15th editions. volumes (1980-1982, received the LPSR State Prize in 1987). Has made a significant contribution to the research of Raini’s art and Latvian dramaturgy. He was the scientific manager of the publication “History of Latvian Literature” (1-3, 1998-2001), wrote chapters on Latvian drama from 1918 to the present day.

Since 1956, Viktors Hausmanis has been working in the field of theater science, creating publications on the development problems of Latvian theater and dramaturgy, writing reviews. He has lectured on Raini and the dramaturgy of exile at the University of Latvia, on Latvian drama at the universities of Münster and Bonn. Since 2013, he has worked as a leading researcher at the Institute of Literature, Folklore and Art of the Lithuanian University.

V. Hausmanis compiled a selection of works by Mārtiņš Zīverts “Plays” (1988) and “Kamerlugas” (1989) and a selection of works by Anšlav Eglīš “Plays” (1990) with extensive comments and reflections on the life and works of Mārtiņš Zīverts and Anšlav Eglīš. Compiled and commented on the collection of Mārtiņš Zīverts’s autobiography and letters “Par sevi” (1992), as well as the collection “Trimdas lugas” (1-2, 1994-1995) with a wide introduction. V. Hausmanis was the chairman of the Mārtiņas Zīverts Foundation, writes “Kroders.lv”.

V. Hausmanis has received the Viļas Plūdonis award for the study of Latvian exile dramaturgy, the LZA Raina’s award – for the study of Latvian literary and cultural processes and outstanding contribution to the research of Raina’s creative work, the Latvian Academy of Sciences Grand Medal, the Cross of Recognition III class and other awards.

Portal “Kroders.lv” writes: “Farewell to Viktor Hausmanis will take place on Saturday, March 25 at 12.00 in the Great Hall of the Riga Crematorium.”