Josef Čapek

Born in 1887 in what is now the Czech Republic, Josef Čapek became an important figure in Czech cultural life as both a writer and a visual artist. He was closely connected with his brother Karel Čapek, and the two collaborated early in their careers, but Josef also built a distinct reputation of his own through painting, illustration, prose, and criticism.

As an artist, he was associated with modern movements in the early 20th century, while his writing often combined clarity, imagination, and a humane point of view. He is especially remembered by many readers for the children's book Dashenka, or the Life of a Puppy, as well as for essays and prose that show his warmth and intelligence.

During World War II, Čapek was arrested by the Nazis because of his public stance and was imprisoned in concentration camps. He died in 1945, near the end of the war. His life and work are remembered not only for their artistic range, but also for their courage and moral seriousness.