Life and works of Alexander Csoma de Körös : $b A biography compiled chiefly from hitherto unpublished data

Born in a modest Transylvanian village, Alexander Csoma de Körös displayed an early fascination with languages that led him from the halls of Göttingen to the rugged frontiers of the Himalayas. Driven by a desire to unlock the mysteries of Buddhist scripture, he embarked on a perilous journey across Central Asia, braving harsh weather and political uncertainty to reach the remote monasteries of Sikkim and Darjeeling. The narrative follows his relentless determination, the challenges of learning Tibetan from native scholars, and the early triumphs that earned him the respect of British officials and fellow orientalists.

The biography draws on previously unpublished letters, government archives, and personal notes, offering a fresh, connected picture of Csoma’s scholarly pursuits. It also provides concise summaries of his scattered essays and manuscripts, highlighting how his pioneering Tibetan–English dictionary laid foundations for modern Tibetology. Listeners will gain insight into a remarkable 19th‑century explorer whose dedication continues to shape the study of Buddhist literature today.