Jan Mečkowski. Elze Ozeskiene, 19th c. 8th right © Lithuanian Art Museum (EU-190703/75)
Eliza Orzeszkowa (1841-1910) – Polish novelist, publicist, positivist, twice nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature (1904 and 1909). For the first time, a writer has been nominated by Professor A. Brückner at the University of Berlin. The possibility of awarding the Nobel Prize for Literature to two Polish authors was considered, but it was decided to award it to one of them, Patriarch of Polish Literature Henryk Sienkiewicz, not wanting to break the tradition. Five years later, Ozhoshova’s candidacy for the Nobel Prize was second.
Originating from wealthy Polish-born Lithuanian nobility, Eliza received her regular education in the “good house panel” and continued her education. In Warsaw, he became an active public figure and philanthropist. Beginning in 1863. For the uprising against Tsarist Russia, he joined the Women’s Legion, transported mail and food to the rebels, and nursed the wounded. E. Ožeškova wrote her first novel at the age of 25. In her writings she has often criticized patriarchal society, the passivity and primitivity of landlords, heralded the ideas of women’s emancipation, her tolerance for Jews, her advancement in technology, and her admiration for active urban intellectuals. E. Ozhshakovs became more and more concerned with educational activities. 1878 Acquired one of its bookstores and publishing houses in Vilnius with a business partner and named it “E. Orzeszkowa i S-ka ”. As many as 24 books have been published in three years; There was also a reading room at the bookstore. E. Ožeškova’s cultural activities did not please the Tsar’s officials. 1882 the bookstore was closed and the writers themselves were placed under police supervision for several years.
One of the writer’s hobbies was herbaria; with dry flowers she decorated greetings for her family and friends. These personal creations of her have by chance survived to our days.
