August Kitzberg

Born on December 29, 1855, in what is now Estonia, August Kitzberg grew up in the Mulgi region, a background that stayed close to his writing. He became known as both a prose writer and playwright, with a gift for observing everyday people and turning local life into vivid stories.

His early work included humorous and satirical pieces as well as stories about rural communities. Later, he became especially important in the theater, and his plays helped lay the groundwork for serious Estonian drama. Among his best-known works is The Werewolf (Libahunt), which remains one of the classics associated with his name.

Kitzberg spent an important part of his later career in Tartu, where he was connected with the newspaper Postimees and with the Vanemuine Theatre. He died in Tartu on October 10, 1927, but his work has continued to matter for readers interested in Estonian culture, folklore, and the emotional tensions between tradition and change.