The management of the National Library in Prague underwent a significant transformation in 1860 when Ignác Jan Hanuš assumed its directorship following the resignation of Pavel Josef Šafařík. His tenure introduced expanded reading room accessibility, a reorganized cataloging system, and an increased staff count, marking a professional shift from his earlier academic career in philosophy.
Academic Formation and Early Appointments
Born in 1812 in Prague, Hanuš received his education at Charles University, completing his studies in 1831. His early pursuit of contemplation led him to the Strahov Monastery, though he eventually transitioned to legal studies at the University of Vienna. By the mid-1830s, he served as an adjunct at the University of Vienna before securing a professorship at Lviv University. His time in Lemberg facilitated research into Slavic mythology, culminating in the 1842 publication of Die Wissenschaft des slawischen Mythus.
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In 1847, Hanuš joined the Faculty of Philosophy at Palacký University in Olomouc, where he instructed students on the history of philosophy and ethics. He expanded his reach into journalism as an editor for Die Neue Zeit and participated in organizations aligned with the Czech National Revival during the 1848 revolutions. Upon returning to Prague in 1849, he lectured at the university in both Czech and German. His academic standing faced a setback in 1852 when he was dismissed for prioritizing the philosophy of Hegel over the state-sanctioned teachings of Johann Friedrich Herbart.
Scholarly Contributions and Controversies
Following his removal from formal university teaching, Hanuš focused on private instruction and research. He became a member of the Royal Czech Society of Sciences and assumed a managerial role within its library. His scholarly output during this period included historical analysis and linguistic research. In 1860, he generated notable friction within intellectual circles by proposing that Glagolitic script preceded Cyrillic and by casting doubt on the authenticity of specific historical documents considered central to Czech national identity.
Final Years
Hanuš maintained his dedication to archival and educational work throughout his final decade. His career was marked by his efforts to modernize library infrastructure and his persistent engagement with the intellectual debates of the Austrian Empire. He suffered a stroke in May 1869 and died three days later in Prague. He was interred at Olšany Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1812, Prague
- Died: 1869, Prague
- Primary Occupations: Philosopher, Librarian, Professor
- Key Employers: Lviv University, University of Vienna, Charles University
- Academic Membership: Royal Czech Society of Sciences
- Notable Research: Slavic mythology, Glagolitic script
- Burial Site: Olšany Cemetery
- Languages Used: German, Czech
Questions readers ask
Why was Hanuš dismissed from his university position in 1852?
He was dismissed because he taught the philosophy of Hegel rather than the officially approved ideas of Johann Friedrich Herbart.
What significant changes did he implement at the National Library?
He reorganized the library's catalog, increased the number of employees, expanded the reading room, and extended the operating hours.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Vienna, Charles University and Lviv University
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